In molecular orbital theory, which of the following orbitals is filled first?

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Question: In molecular orbital theory, which of the following orbitals is filled first?

Options:

Correct Answer: σ2s

Solution:

According to the Aufbau principle, the σ2s orbital is filled first before any other orbitals.

In molecular orbital theory, which of the following orbitals is filled first?

In molecular orbital theory, which of the following orbitals is filled first?

Step 1: Understand that molecular orbital theory explains how atomic orbitals combine to form molecular orbitals.
Step 2: Learn about the Aufbau principle, which states that electrons fill the lowest energy orbitals first.
Step 3: Identify the orbitals involved in molecular orbital theory, such as σ2s, σ2p, and others.
Step 4: Recognize that the σ2s orbital is the lowest energy orbital among the options given.
Step 5: Conclude that according to the Aufbau principle, the σ2s orbital is filled first before any other orbitals.

Molecular Orbital Theory – A theory that describes the electronic structure of molecules using molecular orbitals formed from atomic orbitals.
Aufbau Principle – A principle stating that electrons occupy the lowest energy orbitals first before filling higher energy orbitals.
Orbital Filling Order – The specific sequence in which atomic and molecular orbitals are filled with electrons, typically following the increasing energy levels.