What is the total number of valence electrons surrounding the central carbon atom in a fully formed, — GOC and Organic Chemistry Basics Chemistry Question
Question
What is the total number of valence electrons surrounding the central carbon atom in a fully formed, classical carbocation intermediate?
Answer: 6
💡 Solution & Explanation
A classical carbocation forms three covalent bonds with adjacent atoms. Each bond contains an electron pair. Therefore, $3 \times 2 = 6$ valence electrons are present, leaving the central carbon atom strictly short of a complete octet.
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