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Chapter 11: Problem 60

Lewis theory is satisfactory to explain bonding in the ionic compound \(\mathrm{K}_{2} \mathrm{O},\) but it does not readily explain formation of the ionic compounds potassium superoxide, \(\mathrm{KO}_{2}\), and potassium peroxide, \(\mathrm{K}_{2} \mathrm{O}_{2}\) (a) Show that molecular orbital theory can provide this explanation. (b) Write Lewis structures consistent with the molecular orbital explanation.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Molecular Orbital theory explains the formation of KO2 and K2O2 by considering that Potassium atoms donate their 4s electrons to the antibonding orbitals of the Oxygen molecules, forming ionic compounds. The Lewis structures confirm these ionic bonds, showing electrons' transfer from Potassium to Oxygen molecules.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding molecular orbital theory for KO2

For KO2, Potassium (K) has one valence electron in its 4s orbital. O2 (dioxygen) is a diradical and exhibits paramagnetism. It has corresponding π* (antibonding) orbitals populated by one electron each. When Potassium reacts with O2, the electron from 4s orbital of K goes to one of these antibonding orbitals, making O2 a full bonding species while giving K a +1 charge, forming an ionic compound, KO2.
02

Understanding molecular orbital theory for K2O2

For K2O2, each Potassium atom donates one electron to an Oxygen molecule. As a result, each K atom gets a +1 charge, and O2 gets a -1 charge. Since two K atoms donate one electron each, the overall charge forms as neutral, creating KO2.
03

Writing Lewis structures for KO2

For KO2, the Lewis structure will show that Oxygen (O2) molecule forms an ionic bond with Potassium (K+), represented by placing K+(s) Naear [O2]-. It indicates that one electron is transferred from Potassium to Oxygen molecule.
04

Writing Lewis structures for K2O2

For K2O2, the Lewis structure will show two Potassium ions (K+) forming an ionic bond with Peroxide (O22-), represented by placing two K+ near [O - O]2-. It indicates that an electron from each Potassium atom is transferred to the Oxygen molecule.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Explain the important distinctions between the terms in each of the following pairs: (a) \(\sigma\) and \(\pi\) bonds; (b) localized and delocalized electrons; (c) bonding and antibonding molecular orbitals; (d) metal and semiconductor.

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