Which of the following is best explained by the fact that the SO molecule is very unstable, whereas O₂ is stable. A) There exists much stronger π bonding between oxygen atoms than between a sulfur atom and an oxygen atom. B) The S-O bond is inherently unstable. C) The difference in electronegativity between the sulfur atom and the oxygen atom makes it unlikely for the S-O bond to form. D) Sulfur lacks the ability to form double bonds. E) none of these

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The π bonding between oxygen atoms is stronger due to the smaller size and higher electronegativity of oxygen, which allows for effective overlap of p orbitals, making O2 stable. In contrast, the larger size of sulfur leads to less effective π bonding with oxygen, contributing to the instability of SO.

Which of the Following Is Best Explained by the Fact