2010 DESTROYER gen chem #222

[toothfairy05]

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This problem asks for the number of resonance forms that can be drawn for the OCN- anion.

Ok, so when I first looked at the problem, I found 2 resonance forms. However, the solution says that there are 3 resonance forms. The last resonance form has a +1 charge on oxygen (triple bonded to Carbon) and the Nitrogen with a -2 charge. When I took orgo, I was taught that having Nitrogen with a -2 charge is bad and that Oxygen hates having a positive charge. SOOOOO... is the last 'Bad' resonance form to be counted? I'm a bit confused.

Your input would be most appreciated!

Thanks!

 

[rnbaxter]

and this is why I didn't buy destroyer.

 

[newmexomfs]

the question is only asking how many resonance forms are possible and not which is the most stable/ most contributing one. Whether good or bad all will contribute to the structure, but how much they contribute depends on their stability. Most stable contributes the most!

 

[toothfairy05]

the question is only asking how many resonance forms are possible and not which is the most stable/ most contributing one. Whether good or bad all will contribute to the structure, but how much they contribute depends on their stability. Most stable contributes the most!

OK makes sense!!!!!!!!!! I need to read these questions more carefully!