lewis structure of HOCH2S-

To determine the Lewis structure of HOCH2S-, we need to follow a few steps:

Step 1: Count the total number of valence electrons.
To do this, add up the valence electrons of each atom. In this case, we have:

H: 1 electron x 2 = 2 electrons
O: 6 electrons
C: 4 electrons
H: 1 electron
S: 6 electrons
Total: 2 + 6 + 4 + 1 + 6 = 19 electrons

Step 2: Determine the central atom.
In this molecule, the central atom is carbon (C). Carbon is usually a good central atom as it can form multiple bonds.

Step 3: Connect the central atoms and the other atoms.
Connect each atom to the central atom using a single bond. In this case, carbon (C) will be connected to oxygen (O) and hydrogen (H). Also, sulfur (S) will be connected to carbon (C) using a single bond.

Step 4: Distribute the remaining electrons.
After connecting the atoms, distribute the remaining electrons to satisfy the octet rule. In this case, we have 19 electrons to distribute.

Start by distributing electrons around the outer atoms (hydrogen, oxygen, sulfur) until they have a full octet (except hydrogen, which only needs 2 electrons). In this case:
- Oxygen (O) needs 8 electrons. It already has 2 from the single bond, so we add 6 electrons as a lone pair.
- Hydrogen (H) needs 2 electrons. It already has 1 from the single bond, so we add 1 electron.
- Sulfur (S) also needs 8 electrons. It already has 2 from the single bond, so we add 6 electrons as a lone pair.

After distributing electrons to the outer atoms, distribute the remaining electrons as lone pairs on the central atom (carbon, C). In this case, we have 7 electrons left, so we add 4 as a lone pair.

Step 5: Check for octet rule and formal charges.
Make sure all the atoms have an octet (except hydrogen, which only needs 2 electrons), and calculate formal charges to ensure the most stable Lewis structure.

After following these steps, the Lewis structure of HOCH2S- is:

H
|
H - C - O(-)
|
H

|
S

Note: The negative charge is placed on the oxygen atom (O) because it is more electronegative than carbon (C) and sulfur (S).