In the Lewis electron dot structure of ammonia (NH3), how many total electrons are represented?

Understand the Problem

The question is asking how many total electrons are represented in the Lewis electron dot structure of ammonia (NH3). To answer this, we will consider the number of valence electrons contributed by nitrogen and hydrogen atoms in the molecule.

More Information

In the Lewis structure of ammonia (NH3), there are 8 valence electrons represented. This is derived from 5 electrons from nitrogen and 1 from each of the three hydrogen atoms.

Tips

A common mistake is miscounting the valence electrons of nitrogen or hydrogen. Be sure to use the correct electron count: nitrogen has 5 and hydrogen has 1.

Sources

• What is the Lewis structure of NH3? - Socratic - socratic.org
• Draw the electron dot structure of ammonia molecule. - BYJU'S - byjus.com