Key Concepts and Summary
Valence bond theory describes bonding as a consequence of the overlap of two separate atomic orbitals on different atoms that creates a region with one pair of electrons shared between the two atoms. When the orbitals overlap along an axis containing the nuclei, they form a σ bond. When they overlap in a fashion that creates a node along this axis, they form a π bond.
Explain how σ and π bonds are similar and how they are different.
Solution
Similarities: Both types of bonds result from overlap of atomic orbitals on adjacent atoms and contain a maximum of two electrons.
Differences: σ bonds are stronger and result from end-to-end overlap and all single bonds are σ bonds; π bonds between the same two atoms are weaker because they result from side-by-side overlap, and multiple bonds contain one or more π bonds (in addition to a σ bond).
Draw a curve that describes the energy of a system with H and Cl atoms at varying distances. Then, find the minimum energy of this curve two ways.
(a) Use the bond energy found in [link] to calculate the energy for one single HCl bond (Hint: How many bonds are in a mole?)
(b) Use the enthalpy of reaction and the bond energies for H2 and Cl2 to solve for the energy of one mole of HCl bonds. $$H_2(g)+Cl_2(g)⇌2HCl(g)\qquad ΔH_{rxn}^°=−184.7\;kJ/mol$$ $$H_2(g)+Cl_2(g)⇌2HCl(g)\qquad ΔH_{rxn}^°=−184.7\;kJ/mol$$
Explain why bonds occur at specific average bond distances instead of the atoms approaching each other infinitely close.
Solution
The specific average bond distance is the distance with the lowest energy. At distances less than the bond distance, the positive charges on the two nuclei repel each other, and the overall energy increases.
Use valence bond theory to explain the bonding in F2, HF, and ClBr. Sketch the overlap of the atomic orbitals involved in the bonds.
Use valence bond theory to explain the bonding in O2. Sketch the overlap of the atomic orbitals involved in the bonds in O2.
Solution
Bonding: One σ bond and one π bond. The s orbitals are filled and do not overlap. The p orbitals overlap along the axis to form a σ bond and side-by-side to form the π bond.
How many σ and π bonds are present in the molecule HCN?
A friend tells you N2 has three π bonds due to overlap of the three p-orbitals on each N atom. Do you agree?
Solution
No, two of the p orbitals (one on each N) will be oriented end-to-end and will form a σ bond.
Draw the Lewis structures for CO2 and CO, and predict the number of σ and π bonds for each molecule.
(a) CO2
(b) CO