What is the resonance structure for NO_2^-?

1 Answer
anor277
Apr 28, 2016

O=N-O^-. This is a bent molecule, with a lone pair of electrons on the central nitrogen.

Explanation:

There are 18 electrons to distribute over 3 centres (i.e. 2xx6+5+1), and an associated formal negative charge.

Clearly, the alternative structure ""^(-)O-N=O is equivalent, And the geometry of the nitrogen lone pair, and the 2 N-O bonds are trigonal planar to a first approximation.

/_O-N-O<120^@ due to the influence of the nitrogen lone pair.

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