Molecular orbital theory: assigning electrons

In summary, molecular orbital theory is a model used in chemistry to explain the bonding and properties of molecules. It differs from valence bond theory by considering the entire molecule and taking into account the delocalization of electrons. Electrons are assigned to molecular orbitals according to the Aufbau principle, and bonding and antibonding orbitals play a significant role in determining the stability and reactivity of a molecule. Molecular orbital theory can also explain the shape, energy, and reactivity of molecules based on the distribution and energies of the molecular orbitals.
  • #1
mcfaker
43
0
Hello,

Is it true that according to molecular orbital theory valence electrons in molecules are not assigned to individual atoms?

Does this mean that even lone pairs are not assigned to inidividual atoms in a molecule , but rather assigned to a specified area across the molecule?


Thanks!
 
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  • #2
More or less, yes.

Molecular orbitals are orbitals for the entire molecule.
 
  • #3
Thanks I really appreciate your help!
 

1. What is molecular orbital theory?

Molecular orbital theory is a model used in chemistry to explain the bonding and properties of molecules. It describes how electrons are distributed among the orbitals of a molecule, taking into account the wave-like properties of electrons.

2. How is molecular orbital theory different from valence bond theory?

Molecular orbital theory considers the entire molecule as a whole, while valence bond theory focuses on the individual bonds between atoms. Molecular orbital theory also takes into account the delocalization of electrons, while valence bond theory does not.

3. How are electrons assigned in molecular orbital theory?

Electrons are assigned to molecular orbitals according to the Aufbau principle, which states that electrons fill orbitals in order of increasing energy. Each orbital can hold a maximum of two electrons with opposite spins.

4. What is the significance of bonding and antibonding orbitals in molecular orbital theory?

Bonding orbitals are lower in energy than the atomic orbitals from which they are formed, and they contribute to the stability of a molecule by strengthening the bonds between atoms. Antibonding orbitals, on the other hand, are higher in energy and can weaken or even break the bonds between atoms.

5. How does molecular orbital theory explain the properties of molecules?

Molecular orbital theory can explain the shape, energy, and reactivity of molecules. The distribution of electrons in molecular orbitals determines the geometry of a molecule, while the relative energies of the molecular orbitals determine its stability and reactivity.

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