Lewis Structure Generator
Chlorine molecule · Cl2

Cl2 Lewis Structure

Two chlorine atoms share one electron pair in a Cl–Cl bond. Each atom keeps three lone pairs, so both reach an octet with zero formal charge.

Open Cl2 in the generatorSee drawing steps
Cl₂
:Cl—Cl:
Three lone pairs on each chlorine
Total valence electrons14
Bond order1
Total lone pairs6
GeometryLinear

Cl2 overview

Each chlorine contributes seven electrons. The bond uses two electrons and the remaining twelve form six lone pairs.

How to draw Cl2

  1. Count 14 valence electrons.
  2. Draw one Cl–Cl bond.
  3. Place three lone pairs on each chlorine.
  4. Check both octets and zero formal charges.

Why there is no central atom

Cl₂ is a two-atom molecule. Central-atom selection and VSEPR domain counting are unnecessary; every diatomic molecule is linear.

Common mistakes

  • Drawing Cl=Cl.
  • Omitting lone pairs.
  • Adding ionic charges.
  • Calling one chlorine the central atom.

Last reviewed: July 16, 2026. Educational reference only.