H2 (hydrogen) has two hydrogen atoms. In the lewis structure of H2, there is a single bond between the two hydrogen atoms, and none of the atoms has a lone pair.
Here’s how you can draw the H2 lewis structure step by step.
Step #1: draw sketch
Step #2: mark lone pairs (if there are)
Let’s break down each step in detail.
#1 Draw Sketch
- First, determine the total number of valence electrons
In the periodic table, hydrogen lies in group 1. Hence, hydrogen has one valence electron.
Since H2 has two hydrogen atoms, so…
Valence electrons of two hydrogen atoms = 1 × 2 = 2
So the total valence electrons = 2
- Second, find the total electron pairs
We have a total of 2 valence electrons. And when we divide this value by two, we get the value of total electron pairs.
Total electron pairs = total valence electrons ÷ 2
So the total electron pairs = 2 ÷ 2 = 1
- Third, determine the central atom
Here, there are only two atoms and both atoms are hydrogen, so we can assume any one as the central atom.
Let’s assume that the central atom is right hydrogen.
- And finally, draw the rough sketch
#2 Mark Lone Pairs
Here, we have a total of 1 electron pair. And one H — H bond is already marked. So we do not have to mark any electron pair as a lone pair on the sketch.
And in the above structure, you can see that the central atom (right hydrogen) forms a duet. Hence, the duet rule is satisfied.
Therefore, this structure is the stable lewis structure of H2.
Next: N3– Lewis Structure