Chapter 5: Problem 44

Mention two main striking differences between sigma and pi bonds.

Short Answer

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Answer: The two main striking differences between sigma and pi bonds are: 1. Overlapping orbitals and bond formation: Sigma bonds are formed by end-to-end or head-to-head overlap of atomic orbitals, while pi bonds are formed by the side-to-side or lateral overlap of atomic orbitals. 2. Number of sigma and pi bonds in a multiple bond: In single, double, and triple covalent bonds, one sigma bond always exists, accompanied by one or two pi bonds. Sigma bonds can exist independently, while pi bonds can only exist in conjunction with a sigma bond.

Step by step solution

1. Overlapping orbitals and bond formation

Sigma bonds are formed by the end-to-end or head-to-head overlap of atomic orbitals. The electron cloud is symmetrical around the internuclear axis joining the centers of the two atoms. On the other hand, pi bonds are formed by the side-to-side or lateral overlap of atomic orbitals. The electron cloud forms regions above and below the internuclear axis, making the electron distribution unsymmetrical.

2. Number of sigma and pi bonds in a multiple bond

In a single covalent bond, only one sigma bond is formed between two atoms. For double and triple covalent bonds, one sigma bond is always present together with one or two pi bonds. For a double bond, there is one sigma bond and one pi bond between the two atoms, while for a triple bond, there is one sigma bond and two pi bonds. Pi bonds can only exist in conjunction with a sigma bond, whereas sigma bonds can exist independently.

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Mention two main striking differences between sigma and pi bonds.

Short Answer

Step by step solution

1. Overlapping orbitals and bond formation

2. Number of sigma and pi bonds in a multiple bond

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