Which one of the following molecules is paramagnetic? These molecules are described by the MO energy diagram below. These molecular orbitals are formed from the 2s and 2p atomic orbitals. A) Li₂ B) C₂²^- C) N₂²^- D) N₂²⁺ E) C₂

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The molecule described in choice C, N₂²^-, is paramagnetic because it has an odd number of electrons in its molecular orbitals. Specifically, it has an unpaired electron in the pi* anti-bonding orbital. All of the other molecules described in the diagram have an even number of electrons in their molecular orbitals and are therefore diamagnetic.

Which One of the Following Molecules Is Paramagnetic? These Molecules