Valence Bond Theory and Hybrid Atomic Orbitals

Flashcards covering key vocabulary and concepts in Valence Bond Theory, Hybrid Atomic Orbitals, and Molecular Orbital Theory.

Valence Bond Theory

A theory that describes a covalent bond as the overlap of half-filled atomic orbitals, resulting in a pair of electrons located between the nuclei.

sp Hybrid Orbitals

Hybrid orbitals formed from one s and one p atomic orbital; oriented in a linear geometry.

sp² Hybrid Orbitals

Hybrid orbitals formed from one s and two p atomic orbitals; oriented in a trigonal planar geometry.

sp³ Hybrid Orbitals

Hybrid orbitals formed from one s and three p atomic orbitals; oriented in a tetrahedral geometry.

Hybridization

The process of mixing atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals suitable for the formation of chemical bonds.

Sigma (σ) Bond

A covalent bond formed by the overlap of atomic orbitals along the axis connecting the nuclei.

Pi (π) Bond

A covalent bond formed by the sideways overlap of atomic orbitals, resulting in electron density above and below the axis connecting the nuclei.

Molecular Orbital Theory

A theory that describes the electronic structure of molecules in terms of molecular orbitals, which may extend over the entire molecule.

Bond Order

The number of chemical bonds between a pair of atoms.

Delocalization

Spreading of electron density over multiple atoms in a molecule, rather than being confined between two atoms.

LCAO

Linear Combination of Atomic Orbitals - a technique for approximating molecular orbitals by mathematically combining atomic orbitals.

Bonding Molecular Orbital

A molecular orbital that results in lower energy and increased stability of a molecule when occupied by electrons.

Antibonding Molecular Orbital

A molecular orbital that results in higher energy and decreased stability of a molecule when occupied by electrons.