In the molecular orbital theory, which of the following pairs of orbitals can co
Practice Questions
Q1
In the molecular orbital theory, which of the following pairs of orbitals can combine to form a sigma bond?
s and p
p and p
s and s
d and p
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
In the molecular orbital theory, which of the following pairs of orbitals can combine to form a sigma bond?
Correct Answer: s and s orbitals
Step 1: Understand what a sigma bond is. A sigma bond is a type of covalent bond that is formed when two atomic orbitals overlap directly along the axis connecting the two nuclei.
Step 2: Identify the types of orbitals that can combine to form a sigma bond. The common pairs that can form a sigma bond include s and s orbitals, s and p orbitals, and p and p orbitals.
Step 3: Focus on the specific pair mentioned in the question, which is s and s orbitals.
Step 4: Recognize that when two s orbitals from different atoms come together, they can overlap and form a sigma bond.
