What are the formal charges of each atom in ClO_4^-?

1 Answer
anor277
Jul 26, 2016

Given a static resonance structure, all of the atoms are neutral, save ONE negatively charged oxygen.

Explanation:

A Lewis structure of (O=)_3Cl-O^- is feasible, which places the formal negative charge on oxygen. Of course the negative charged is distributed over all the oxygen centres by resonance. The chlorine atom owns 7 valence electrons, and is thus neutral.

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