Which of the following statements is true regarding the energy levels of molecular orbitals?

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Q: Which of the following statements is true regarding the energy levels of molecular orbitals?

Solution: For second period elements, σ2p is lower in energy than π2p.

Steps: 7

Step 1: Understand that molecular orbitals are formed when atomic orbitals combine.
Step 2: Know that there are different types of molecular orbitals, such as sigma (σ) and pi (π) orbitals.
Step 3: Recognize that for second period elements (like B, C, N, O, F), the energy levels of these orbitals can vary.
Step 4: Learn that σ2p (sigma 2p) is a type of molecular orbital that is formed from the combination of 2p atomic orbitals.
Step 5: Understand that π2p (pi 2p) is another type of molecular orbital formed from the same atomic orbitals but has a different shape.
Step 6: Remember that in the case of second period elements, σ2p is lower in energy than π2p, meaning it is more stable.
Step 7: Conclude that the statement 'σ2p is lower in energy than π2p' is true for second period elements.