Consider the interaction of two hydrogen 1s atomic orbitals of the same phase. Which of the statements below is an incorrect description of this interaction?
A) A sigma bonding molecular orbital is formed.
B) The molecular orbital formed is lower in energy than a hydrogen 1s atomic orbital.
C) The molecular orbital formed has a node between the atoms.
D) The molecular orbital formed is cylindrically symmetric.
E) A maximum of two electrons may occupy the molecular orbital formed.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When two hydrogen 1s atomic orbitals of the same phase interact, they combine to form a sigma bonding molecular orbital. This molecular orbital is lower in energy than the individual atomic orbitals, is cylindrically symmetric, and can hold a maximum of two electrons. However, there is no node between the atoms in this molecular orbital; rather, the electron density is maximized in the region directly between the two nuclei.

Consider the Interaction of Two Hydrogen 1s Atomic Orbitals of the Same