3._Valence_Bond_Theory_-_Filled_in

Valence Bond Theory (VBT)

A model used to describe the bonding between atoms using localized quantum mechanics and hybridization of atomic orbitals.

Hybridization

A process of mixing atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals that can form bonds with other atoms.

s-bond

A bond formed by the head-on overlap of atomic orbitals, characterized by a symmetric bonding interaction about the bonding axis.

π-bond

A bond formed by the side-on overlap of atomic orbitals, resulting in a bonding interaction that is not symmetric about the bonding axis.

Electron Configuration

The distribution of electrons in an atom's or molecule's orbitals; for nitrogen, it is [He] 2s2 2p3.

Molecular Geometry of Methane (CH4)

Tetrahedral geometry with sp3 hybridization of the central carbon atom.

sp hybridization

A type of hybridization involving one s-orbital and one p-orbital, resulting in two hybrid orbitals.

Main Group Elements

Elements in the s and p blocks of the periodic table that do not typically use d orbitals for bonding.

Transition Metals

Elements that can utilize d orbitals for bonding and often exhibit complex geometries and hybridizations.

VSEPR Theory

Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion; a model used to predict the geometry of molecules based on electron pair repulsion.