Pentadiene, \(\mathrm{C}_{5} \mathrm{H}_{8},\) has three isomers, depending on the position of the two double bonds. Determine the shape of these isomers by using VSEPR theory. Describe the bonding in these molecules by using the valence-bond method. Do the shapes agree in the two theories? Use molecular orbital theory to decide which of these molecules has a delocalized \(\pi\) system. Sketch the molecular orbital and an energy-level diagram.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Using VSEPR theory, all isomers of pentadiene have a trigonal planar geometry. According to the valence bond method, each Carbon atom forms σ bonds with its neighboring atoms, with the fourth valence electron forming a π bond. The molecular shapes are consistent with both theories. However, only 1,3-pentadiene and 1,4-pentadiene have a delocalized pi system as per Molecular Orbital theory.

Step by step solution

01

Sketch Structures of Isomers

Identify the three isomers of pentadiene, which are 1,2-pentadiene, 1,3-pentadiene, and 1,4-pentadiene based on the different positions of two double bonds. In VSEPR model, atom with double or single bond is considered as one domain. Thus, each Carbon atom in pentadiene is surrounded by three electron domains and according to VSEPR theory, such molecules possess trigonal planar electron-domain geometry.
02

Describe Bonding Using Valence-Bond Method

For the second step, use the valence bond theory to analyze. Each Carbon atom uses three of its valence electrons to form sigma bonds with its neighboring atoms. The fourth valence electron in each Carbon atom of a double bond pairs up to form a pi bond, where the electron density lies above and below the plane of the molecule.
03

Check Agreement Between VSEPR and Valence-Bond Theory

The molecular shapes predicted by VSEPR theory for these molecules are in agreement with the molecular structure suggested by the valence-bond method.
04

Identify Delocalized Pi System Using Molecular Orbital Theory

1,2-pentadiene has two isolated double bonds. Therefore, there can be no delocalization of pi electrons. On the other hand, 1,3-pentadiene and 1,4-pentadiene both have a continuous system of parallel p orbitals. This suggests delocalization of pi-bonded electrons in them.
05

Sketch the Molecular Orbital and Energy-Level Diagram

Here we need to draw the energy level diagrams indicating the molecular orbitals of 1,3-pentadiene and 1,4-pentadiene, showing the occupied and vacant pi molecular orbitals.

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