Glycine overview
The stored Lewis connectivity is H₂N—CH₂—C(=O)—O—H. Neutral glycine contains an amine lone pair and a carboxylic-acid group; proton transfer can create a zwitterion.
How to draw C₂H₅NO₂
- Count 30 valence electrons. Include charge adjustments before drawing.
- Use the reviewed connectivity H₂N—CH₂—C(=O)—O—H. 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. Neutral glycine contains an amine lone pair and a carboxylic-acid group; proton transfer can create a zwitterion.
- Verify the total electron count and geometry. The reviewed geometry is Mixed local geometries.
Why this example matters
Neutral glycine contains an amine lone pair and a carboxylic-acid group; proton transfer can create a zwitterion.
Scope and model limits
The page displays the neutral connectivity for electron counting. In water and in the solid state, H₃N⁺–CH₂–COO⁻ is often the more relevant form.
Common mistakes
- Using 26 instead of 30 valence electrons
- Ignoring the nitrogen lone pair
- Assuming the neutral form dominates in every environment
Related reviewed guides
Last reviewed: 2026-07-16. Educational reference only; verify graded work with course materials.