Evaluate the symmetrical carbonate ion (). What is the exact total number of equivalent canonical structures that can be drawn to represent its resonance hybrid?

Question

Evaluate the symmetrical carbonate ion ($CO_3^{2-}$). What is the exact total number of equivalent canonical structures that can be drawn to represent its resonance hybrid?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: 3. The carbonate ion consists of a central carbon double-bonded to one oxygen and single-bonded to two oxygen atoms with negative charges. By rotating the double bond to each of the three equivalent oxygen atoms via resonance, exactly 3 equivalent structures are generated.

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