CEM 141 – Chapter 3: Elements, Bonding, and Physical Properties

These flashcards cover key concepts related to elements, bonding, and physical properties discussed in Chapter 3 of CEM 141.

What are emergent properties in the context of atomic interactions?

Emergent properties are characteristics that arise when atoms interact to form larger collections, such as solids, liquids, and gases.

What determines whether a bond will form between atoms?

Bonds form because atoms want to share electrons, achieve full valence shells, and minimize potential energy.

What does Molecular Orbital (MO) Theory explain about atomic orbitals?

MO Theory explains that atomic orbitals can combine constructively to form bonding orbitals and destructively to form antibonding orbitals.

Why do two helium atoms not form a bond?

Two electrons in an antibonding MO cancel out the stabilization from the bonding MO, resulting in no net bond.

What is the difference between bonding and antibonding molecular orbitals?

Bonding orbitals are lower in energy and stabilize the species, while antibonding orbitals are higher in energy and can destabilize the species.

What occurs during phase changes like melting and boiling?

During these phase changes, energy is absorbed to overcome attractions between particles.

How are the properties of metals explained in terms of bonding?

Metals have overlapping atomic orbitals that form bands of molecular orbitals, allowing electrons to move freely and contributing to metallic properties.

How does the bonding in diamond differ from that in graphite?

Diamond has a tetrahedral geometry with sp3 hybridization, while graphite has a planar structure with sp2 hybridization, allowing for different properties.

What is hybridization in the context of atomic orbitals?

Hybridization is the process where atomic orbitals mix to form new hybrid orbitals suited for bonding.

Why is the melting point of diamond so high?

Breaking the strong sigma bonds in diamond requires a significant amount of energy, leading to its high melting point.