Calculate the formal charges of the atoms in co co2 and co32-

Every element in the compound has its own formal charge. The formula is:

Formal charge = Valence electrons - Nonbonding electrons - Bonding electrons/2

Let the Lewis structure of the compound aid you.

1. For CO:

Formal charge of C = 4 - 2 - 6/2 = - 1

Formal charge of O = 6 - 2 - 6/2 = + 1

2. For CO₂:

Formal charge of C = 4 - 0 - 8/2 = 0

Formal charge of each O = 6 - 4 - 4/2 = 0

3. For CO₃²⁻:

Formal charge of C: 4 - 0 - 8/2 = 0

Formal charge of two O's single-bonded to C = 6 - 6 - 2/2 = - 1

Formal charge of the O double-bonded to C = 6 - 4 - 4/2 = 0