Limitations of Bonding diagrams

Question 1

What is the limitations of cross and dot diagrams?

Answer 1

• Does not tell us the shape of molecules.

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Question 2

What is the problem of 2 dimensional stick diagrams?

Answer 2

• As covalent bonds are shown as a stick:
• Cannot tell which electron in a bond came from which atom.
• Outer electrons not in bonds.
• Does not show us shape of molecules.

Question 3

What are the benefits of 3 dimensional stick diagrams?

Answer 3

• Shows the shape of the molecule.

Question 4

What is the problem of giant ionic lattices? (Ball and Stick).

Answer 4

• Shows that ions are widely spaced HOWEVER:

- In reality they are closely packed together.

Question 5

What is the problems of space filling diagram?

Answer 5

• Difficult to see 3 dimensional packing.

Question 6

What is the problem of both ball and stick diagram and stick filling diagram?

Answer 6

• Show only a tiny part of the giant crystal lattice.

- Gives mistaken impressions about the size of these structures.