In the molecular orbital theory, which of the following orbitals is lower in energy for homonuclear diatomic molecules?

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Q: In the molecular orbital theory, which of the following orbitals is lower in energy for homonuclear diatomic molecules?

Solution: The σ2s orbital is lower in energy than the π2p and σ2p orbitals in homonuclear diatomic molecules.

Steps: 8

Step 1: Understand what homonuclear diatomic molecules are. These are molecules made of two identical atoms, like O2 or N2.
Step 2: Learn about molecular orbitals. These are regions in a molecule where electrons are likely to be found.
Step 3: Identify the types of molecular orbitals involved: σ (sigma) and π (pi) orbitals.
Step 4: Know that the σ2s orbital is formed from the 2s atomic orbitals of the two atoms.
Step 5: Understand that the π2p orbitals are formed from the 2p atomic orbitals and can be degenerate (same energy) in pairs.
Step 6: Recognize that the σ2p orbital is formed from the 2p atomic orbitals as well, but has a different shape and energy.
Step 7: Compare the energy levels: The σ2s orbital is lower in energy than both the π2p and σ2p orbitals.
Step 8: Conclude that in homonuclear diatomic molecules, the σ2s orbital is the lowest in energy.