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Chapter 11: Problem 32

Is it correct to say that when a diatomic molecule loses an electron, the bond energy always decreases (that is, that the bond is always weakened)? Explain.

Short Answer

Expert verified
No, it's not always correct to say that when a diatomic molecule loses an electron, the bond energy always decreases. The effect on bond energy depends on the significance of the removed electron in bonding. In some cases, the removal could lead to a more stable bonding situation.

Step by step solution

01

Understand Bond Energy

Bond energy is the amount of energy required to break one mole of a bond in a diatomic molecule. It measures the strength of a bond; the greater the bond energy, the stronger the bond.
02

Consider Electron Loss from Diatomic Molecule

Removal of an electron from a diatomic molecule, also known as ionization, changes the electron configuration of the molecule, and hence its bonding situation. This change can affect bond energy.
03

Assess Bond Energy After Electron Loss

Loss of an electron might result in a weakened bond, thereby reducing the bond energy, particularly if the removed electron participated significantly in the bonding. However, there can also be cases when the removal of an electron results in a rearranged electron configuration that also leads to a more stable bonding situation. Therefore, it can't be stated categorically that bond energy always decreases when a diatomic molecule loses an electron.

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