The cyanate ion, OCN⁻, has the least electronegative atom, C, in the center. The unstable fulminate ion, CNO⁻, has the same molecular formula, but the N atom is in the center.
(a) Draw the three possible resonance structures of CNO⁻.
(b) On the basis of formal charges, decide on the resonance structure with the most reasonable distribution of charge.
(c) Mercury fulminate is so unstable it is used in blasting caps for dynamite. Can you offer an explanation for this instability?