🌀 Resonance – Stability, Charge Delocalization & How to Draw It
Resonance helps explain why some molecules are more stable, react differently, or have partial charges that don’t match their Lewis structure. On the DAT, you’ll be tested on your ability to draw, recognize, and evaluate resonance structures.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
What resonance is and why it matters
How to draw resonance structures
How to identify the most stable form
DAT-style examples and tricks
🔬 What Is Resonance?
Resonance is the delocalization of electrons across multiple atoms
It represents more than one valid Lewis structure for a molecule
The actual structure = hybrid (average) of all valid forms
Only electrons move (typically π electrons or lone pairs)
🧠 Atoms never move—only electron placement changes in resonance.
🧠 How to Recognize Resonance on the DAT
| Look For | Example Molecules |
|---|---|
| Lone pairs next to π bonds | Carboxylate, enolate |
| Double bonds next to charges | Benzene, nitro group |
| π systems across multiple atoms | Conjugated dienes |
✅ These clues often appear in multiple-choice structure questions.
📊 DAT Resonance Prioritization Rules
| Stability Factor | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Full octet on all atoms | Most important rule for stability |
| Negative charge on electronegative atom | Increases resonance stability |
| Least charge separation | Structures with minimal formal charges are favored |
| Positive charge on less electronegative atom | More favorable than placing it on electronegative atoms |
🧠 More stable resonance forms contribute more to the hybrid.
🧪 DAT-Style Practice Question
Q: Which is the most stable resonance form of acetate (CH₃COO⁻)?
A: One with negative charge on the more electronegative oxygen atom and full octets on all atoms.
🎯 DAT Strategy Tips
✅ Know how to move lone pairs and π bonds using curved arrows
✅ Don’t break sigma bonds
✅ Look for charge delocalization in carboxylic acids, phenols, and amides
✅ Memorize rules of stability prioritization
Visual learners—don’t skip kingofthecurve.org/studyscience
🚀 Call-to-Action
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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