Which statement best describes a Lewis structure?

A Lewis structure is specifically designed to illustrate the arrangement of valence electrons within a molecule, highlighting both the bonding pairs of electrons that engage in chemical bonds and the lone pairs that are not involved in bonding but still exist around the atoms. This representation allows chemists to visualize how atoms are connected and the overall electron arrangement, which is critical for understanding molecular geometry and reactivity.

Each type of electron pair—bonding or lone—plays a significant role in determining the molecule's properties and behavior. By depicting these interactions, a Lewis structure serves as a foundational tool in predicting both the shape of the molecule through concepts like VSEPR theory and its subsequent chemical behavior in reactions.