Lewis Structure of HCl (Hydrogen Chloride)
What is the Lewis structure of HCl?
HCl has 8 valence electrons, 1 bonding electron pair, and 3 lone pairs. HCl has 8 valence electrons. Two form the H–Cl bond, and 6 remain as 3 lone pairs on chlorine. Both atoms satisfy their electron requirements with formal charges of zero.
| Formula | HCl |
| Name | Hydrogen Chloride |
| Total Valence Electrons | 8 |
| Lone Pairs | 3 |
| Has Resonance | No |
| Concept | Lone Pairs |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
Step 1: Count Valence Electrons
H has 1, Cl (Group 7A) has 7: 1 + 7 = 8 total.
Step 2: Draw the Skeleton
H and Cl share a single bond, using 2 electrons.
Step 3: Distribute Lone Pairs
6 electrons remain as 3 lone pairs on chlorine, completing its octet.
Step 5: Check Formal Charges
- H: FC = 1 - 0 - ½(2) = 0
- Cl: FC = 7 - 6 - ½(2) = 0
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