A total of how many resonance structures can be drawn for the cyclopentadienyl anion?Select answer from the options below56342

To determine the number of resonance structures for the cyclopentadienyl anion, we first need to analyze its structure and the possible electron configurations.

Step 1: Identify the Anion Structure

The cyclopentadienyl anion is derived from cyclopentadiene by adding an extra electron, creating a negatively charged species. This anion has a cyclic structure with five carbon atoms and one negative charge that can be delocalized.

Step 2: Determine Possible Resonance Contributions

In the cyclopentadienyl anion, the negative charge can be placed on different carbon atoms within the ring. The presence of conjugated double bonds allows for resonance.

Step 3: Count Distinct Resonance Structures

The resonance structures can be generated by moving the electrons in the pi bonds and the negatively charged electron:

1. Original structure with negative charge on one carbon.
2. Shift of double bonds around the ring, resulting in new structures.

To summarize, the key locations of the negative charge can be analyzed systematically:

• If we place the negative charge on each carbon in turn and shift the double bond accordingly, we will ultimately find that there are 5 unique resonance structures.

Final Answer

The total number of resonance structures for the cyclopentadienyl anion is 5.