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Which of the following statements about resonance is NOT correct?

1. Resonating (contributing) structures are real and physically exist.
2. When equivalent contributing structures are possible, the resonance hybrid is highly stabilized.
3. Contributing structures are hypothetical and have no real, independent existence.
4. Each contributing structure is less stable than the actual resonance hybrid.

Correct answer: Resonating (contributing) structures are real and physically exist.

Solution

Canonical/resonance structures are purely hypothetical constructs used to describe the real molecule, which is the resonance hybrid. They have no independent physical existence, so the claim that they are real is incorrect.

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