1. Identify the atoms and their valence electrons:
* Carbon (C): 4 valence electrons
* Hydrogen (H): 1 valence electron
* Nitrogen (N): 5 valence electrons
2. Account for the positive charge:
* The positive charge indicates the loss of one electron.
3. Calculate the total valence electrons:
* Carbon: 4
* Hydrogen (3 atoms): 3 * 1 = 3
* Nitrogen (2 atoms): 2 * 5 = 10
* Total: 4 + 3 + 10 = 17
* Subtract 1 electron for the positive charge: 17 - 1 = 16
Therefore, the methane diazonium ion (CH3N2+) has 16 valence electrons.