Lewis Structure of SiH₄ (Silane)
What is the Lewis structure of SiH₄?
SiH₄ has 8 valence electrons, 4 bonding electron pairs. Silane has 8 valence electrons, all used in four Si-H single bonds. Silicon satisfies the octet rule through its 4 bonds, and each hydrogen has a filled duet. No lone pairs are present.
| Formula | SiH₄ |
| Name | Silane |
| Total Valence Electrons | 8 |
| Lone Pairs | 0 |
| Has Resonance | No |
| Concept | Simple Bonds |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
Step 1: Count Valence Electrons
Si (Group 4A) has 4 valence electrons, each H has 1: 4 + 4(1) = 8 total.
Step 2: Draw the Skeleton
Silicon is central with 4 single bonds to hydrogen, using all 8 electrons.
Step 3: Distribute Lone Pairs
No electrons remain. All 8 are in bonds. No lone pairs needed.
Step 5: Check Formal Charges
- Si: FC = 4 - 0 - ½(8) = 0
- H: FC = 1 - 0 - ½(2) = 0
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