How To Calculate The Formal Charge of an Atom - Chemistry

This chemistry video tutorial provides a basic introduction into how to calculate the formal charge of an atom or element in a lewis structure. This video is useful for students taking general chemistry or organic chemistry. This tutorial contains plenty of examples and practice problems so you can master using the formula / equation for calculating formal charge.

Molecular Geometry - Formula Sheet:

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How To Draw Lewis Structures:

VSEPR Theory:

Molecular Geometry:

Lewis Dot Structures:

Lewis Structures of Ionic Compounds:

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Octet Rule Exceptions:

Resonance Structures:

Polar and Nonpolar Molecules:

Formal Charge Calculations:

Lewis Structures - Mega Review:

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Hybridization of Atomic Orbitals:

Molecular Orbital Theory:

Dipole Dipole Forces of Attraction:

Hydrogen Bonding:

Unit Cell Chemistry:

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Final Exams and Video Playlists:

Full-Length Videos and Worksheets:

Formal Charge:

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[theo]

For the CN- confusionistas out there: 6:50

When drawing the Lewis structure, be aware of the charges in the formula given: CN- <——
In this case we are supposed to get -1 in charge in the Lewis model, meaning we need to add an electron to the formula.


Drawing the model: First step

Number of electrons C: 4
Number of electrons N: 5
Charge: -1, so 1 more added electron.
Total: 4 + 5 + 1 = 10


Drawing the model: Step by step
1. Add 2 electrons between C and N: C : N
2. Because N is more electronegative, this needs to be filled up first:
..
C : N :
..

3. Now we have used 8 electrons, so only 2 left. These goes to the C:

..
:C : N :
..


THEREFORE: C has 2 dots, and is therefore the negative part of CN-


Hope this helps :)

Sorry if there’s some language-errors, English is not my chemistry-language, it’s my third language.
And if this video is difficult, I recommend watching his video about Lewis structures, then go back to this. I promise it’ll be easier :)

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31 dislikes from professors who overcomplicate things

[georgesadler]

Professor Organic Chemistry Tutor, thank you for an outstanding Introduction into How to calculate the formal charge of an atom or element in a Lewis structure. Calculating the formal charge is simple to follow and understand, however drawing the Lewis structure is problematic. Thanks to the viewers for finding and correcting the errors with the Lewis structures in AP/General Chemistry.

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