Resonance occurs when a molecule can be represented by multiple Lewis structures and the actual structure is a hybrid of all the contributing structures. A resonance hybrid is the average structure between all the canonical or contributing Lewis structures. Delocalization of electrons through resonance leads to decreased potential energy and increased stability compared to any single contributing structure. Electron donating groups cause positive resonance or inductive effects while electron withdrawing groups cause negative resonance or inductive effects. Resonance and inductive effects influence acidity, basicity, and reactivity.