Which of the following statements is/are true of predictions about formation of molecular orbitals?
1. Atomic orbitals must have a net overlap in space to form molecular orbitals.
2. Atomic orbitals that are close in energy will interact more strongly than those widely separated in energy.
3. Atomic orbitals that are close in energy will interact less strongly than those widely separated in energy.
A) 1 and 2
B) 2 only
C) 1 and 3
D) 3 only
E) 1 only

Question

Which of the following statements is/are true of predictions about formation of molecular orbitals?
1. Atomic orbitals must have a net overlap in space to form molecular orbitals.
2. Atomic orbitals that are close in energy will interact more strongly than those widely separated in energy.
3. Atomic orbitals that are close in energy will interact less strongly than those widely separated in energy.​
A) ​1 and 2
B) ​2 only
C) ​1 and 3
D) ​3 only
E) ​1 only

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Statement 1 is true because for molecular orbitals to form, atomic orbitals must overlap in space, allowing for the electrons to delocalize and form a new energy state.

Statement 2 is also true because atomic orbitals that are close in energy will form more stable molecular orbitals due to their increased interaction and greater overlap.

Statement 3 is false because atomic orbitals that are close in energy will interact more strongly, leading to a stronger molecular orbital bond. Those that are widely separated in energy will interact less strongly and lead to weaker molecular orbital bonds.

Which of the Following Statements Is/are True of Predictions About