Bond order calculation in Lewis structures is fundamental in chemistry for predicting bond strengths and stabilities. It determines the number of shared electron pairs between atoms, influencing molecule behavior. For instance, double bonds result in stronger, shorter interatomic distances than single bonds due to the extra electron pair in the bond.
Calculating bond order reveals the extent of electron delocalization, stabilizes resonance structures, and aids in understanding chemical reactions and molecular properties. Historically, Linus Pauling introduced the concept to explain covalent bonding and predict molecular geometry.