RESONANCE

STRUCTURES
 RULES FOR RESONANCE
STRUCTURES
• Can only move electrons (not atoms);
• Cannot form/break single bonds;
• Cannot add/substract total number of electrons;
• Cannot break octet rule.
 HOW TO DRAW RESONANCE
STRUCTURES?

1. Identify resonance contributors.

Determine which atoms and bonds in the molecule can participate in resonance. Usually, these are
atoms with lone pairs, π bonds, or atoms with adjacent π systems.

2. Start moving electrons.

You need to move electrons in such a way that you get a new arrangement of bonds and lone pairs.

3. Pay attention on not moving atoms.

When you move electrons, pay attention that atoms in the molecule are not shifted.

4. Use arrows.
Do not forget to indicate the motion of electrons with curved arrows.
EXERCISES
ANSWER
On the following website you can find more examples with solutions
and explanations:
https://www.masterorganicchemistry.com/organic-chemistry-practice-
problems/resonance-structures-practice/
CONFORMERS
 Cram representation

ECLIPSED Newman projection

 Cram representation

STAGGERED
(GAUCHE)
Newman projection
 Newman projection

Cram representation

STAGGERED (ANTI)