Question
Write the Lewis structure of $CO$ molecule.

Answer

Step $I:$ Count number of electrons of carbon and oxygen atoms. The valence shell configuration of carbon and oxygen atoms are $: 2s^2 2p^2$ and $2s^2 2p^4,$ respectively. The valence electrons available are $: 4 + 6=10$
Step $II:$ The skeletal structure of $CO$ is written as $C O$
Step $III:$ Draw a single bond $($One shared electron pair$)$ between $C$ and $O$ and complete the octet on $O.$ The remaining two electrons is a lone pair on $C.$
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The octet on carbon is not complete. Hence, there is a multiple bond between $C \ and \ O ($a triple bond between $C$ and $O$ atom$).$ This satisfies the octet rule for carbon and oxygen atoms.
The Lewis structure of $CO$ molecule is:
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