Valence-electron counter
Count the electrons available for bonds and lone pairs.
Live model
Drag with a mouse or one finger to rotate. Use the zoom control or mouse wheel to move closer.
Water
H2O
Module 7 of 13
Description of this simulation
Water (H2O): Valence-electron counter — 8 electrons. Two lone pairs compress the H–O–H angle and leave a strong net dipole.
Live result
8 electrons
Two lone pairs compress the H–O–H angle and leave a strong net dipole.
Molecule at a glance
- Geometry
- Bent
- Symmetry
- C₂v
- Polarity
- Polar
- Bond angle
- 104.5°
What this model shows — and what it simplifies
Total valence electrons are the sum of the neutral atoms’ group valences. These are the electrons available to place in a Lewis structure.
Where do we see this in real life?
Electron counting is the bookkeeping behind Lewis structures, oxidation states and the first prediction of molecular reactivity.