Resonance theory in organic chemistry defines delocalized electrons within a single molecule through multiple valid Lewis structures known as resonance contributors. These contributing forms must adhere to strict theoretical constraints, including the conservation of sigma bonds and atomic positions while only moving pi electrons or lone pairs toward lower-energy regions like electrophilic centers. The actual chemical species exists not as an equilibrium mixture but as a resonance hybrid where properties such as charge distribution are averaged across all valid contributors according to stability rules derived from octet completion, electronegativity balancing with formal charges, and atomic size considerations for charge stabilization.
Resonance theory in organic chemistry defines delocalized electrons within a single molecule through multiple valid Lewis structures known as resonance contributors. These contributing forms must adh…