PPT Slide

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Step 3. Draw a single bond from each surrounding atom to the central atom and subtract two valence electrons for each bond.

3 N–F bonds x 2 e – = 6 e –

26 e – – 6 e – = 20 e – remaining

Step 4. Distribute the remaining electrons in pairs so that each atom shares eight electrons (or two for H).

• For polyatomic ions, add one e – for each negative charge, or subtract one e – for each positive charge.

• Place lone pairs on the surrounding  atoms first to give each an octet.

• If any electrons remain, place them  around the central atom.

Check that each atom has 8e –.

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