Acetone overview
The stored Lewis connectivity is CH₃—C(=O)—CH₃. The carbonyl carbon forms a C=O double bond and two C–C single bonds; oxygen keeps two lone pairs.
How to draw C₃H₆O
- Count 24 valence electrons. Include charge adjustments before drawing.
- Use the reviewed connectivity CH₃—C(=O)—CH₃. Do not infer a different isomer from the formula alone.
- Place the required single, double or multiple bonds. Keep a running electron total.
- Complete terminal valence shells and add lone pairs or formal charges. The carbonyl carbon forms a C=O double bond and two C–C single bonds; oxygen keeps two lone pairs.
- Verify the total electron count and geometry. The reviewed geometry is Trigonal planar at the carbonyl carbon.
Why this example matters
The carbonyl carbon forms a C=O double bond and two C–C single bonds; oxygen keeps two lone pairs.
Scope and model limits
C₃H₆O is not a unique molecular formula. The stored record is acetone, not propanal or another isomer.
Common mistakes
- Drawing only C–O single bonds
- Forgetting oxygen's two lone pairs
- Assuming the formula uniquely identifies acetone
Related reviewed guides
Last reviewed: 2026-07-16. Educational reference only; verify graded work with course materials.