Question

In the Lewis Structure for Nitrosyl chloride (NOCl), why is Nitrogen the central atom?

Thanks in advance! :)

Answer 1

The molecular geometry of NOCl is bent (or angular) with an asymmetric charge distribution on the central atom. Therefore this molecule is polar. Although this compound could be named as nitrogen monoxide monochloride, it is commonly known as Nitrosyl Chloride.

Answer 2

Thank you for the response, @ali000000 - but, ... that's not the reason. In fact, if anything, the reason for what you said is that N is the central atom. My question was: why is N the central atom?

Answer 3

nitrogen should be in central - so that the electron migration will takes place to dissociate given in the image

Answer 4

Ah! Is that something to do with formal charge, then?

Answer 5

NOCl behaves as an electrophile and an oxidant in most of its reactions - then, still what kind of way you would expect @ahaanomegas - shall i give some examples for you

Answer 6

NOCl + SbCl5 → [NO]+[SbCl6]-
In a related reaction, sulfuric acid gives nitrosylsulfuric acid, the mixed acid anhydride of nitrous and sulfuric acid:
ClNO + H2SO4 → ONHSO4 + HCl
NOCl reacts with silver thiocyanate to give silver chloride and the pseudohalogen nitrosyl thiocyanate:
ClNO + AgSCN → AgCl + ONSCN

Answer 7

Thanks a lot for your persevering spirit, @ali000000 - it helps a lot! However, the thing is - what I'm not understanding to 100% accuracy is this. If O was the central atom instead, things would have been different. I think you have the cart before the horse. I don't mean to sound offensive. I'm totally thankful to your for your continuous help. I'm just trying to express my actual concern, which is that I don't see why, if someone asked me to do the Lewis Structure for NOCl, I'd have to make N the central atom.

I hope you understand, and, please, don't take me wrong - you're a very persevering user (see the testimonial I wrote for you!). I can give people a hard time sometimes when I don't understand something someone tells me perfectly. Not your fault!

Sincerely,
Ahaanomegas

P.S. This was a 3.091 Homework problem.

Answer 8

oh i see, its ok @Ahaanomegas for your great interest. You are welcome always. keep smiling