How many resonance structures does CH2N2 have? Draw them.

CH₂N₂, commonly known as diazomethane, has three major resonance structures. Resonance structures are different ways to represent the same molecule where the connectivity remains unchanged, but the arrangement of electrons differs.

The three resonance structures of CH₂N₂ can be depicted as follows:

1. In the first structure, one nitrogen atom carries a double bond with the carbon atom, making it more stable.
2. The second structure features the other nitrogen atom forming a double bond with the carbon atom instead, resulting in the other nitrogen atom now carrying a positive charge.
3. In the third structure, both nitrogen atoms have a single bond with the carbon atom, but this configuration places a positive charge on the carbon atom and a negative charge on one of the nitrogen atoms.

Visual representations of these structures can be depicted as:

• Structure 1:
  H₂C=N⁺-N^–
• Structure 2:
  H₂C-N⁺=N
• Structure 3:
  H₂C⁺-N^–-N

These resonance structures help chemists understand the delocalization of electrons in the molecule and contribute to its overall stability and reactivity. It’s crucial to note that while these structures provide a conceptual visualization, the true structure of CH₂N₂ is a hybrid of these forms.