Chemistry

Why do electrons pair if they repel each other?

Dear Dr. Phaneuf, You are always telling us to keep electrons paired on the Lewis structures we draw. But don't electrons repel? Confused in gen chem I Dear confused, Ah, the mysterious mysteries of nature! You are right to be confused and I applaud your discerning question. Why would electrons... Read more →

What are free radicals?

Dear Holly, I'm get confused when you talk about free radicals. Can you explain in more detail? Dear confused, Free radicals are chemicals with an unpaired electron. That electrons are negatively charged, and thus repel each other, yet tend to pair up in twos is a peculiar aspect of nature.... Read more →