Covalent bonding has limited range?

In summary, covalent bonding molecules are typically in lower quantum energy states, but can still exist with electrons in higher states. There is a limit to how high the electrons can go before the molecule splits, but in a low energy environment, high energy electron orbits could potentially exist and be stable. However, only the ground state is stable, and most particles in the universe are not subject to this type of long range covalent bonding.
  • #1
meemoe_uk
125
0
Hello.
Covalent bonding molicules, right, are usually in lower quantum energy states. e.g. for a typical dihydrogen mol at air temp, the 2 electrons are often in the first or second lowest quantum state.
But, natch, the molicule can still exist with the electron at higher quantum states.
In air, there is a practical limit to how high up the quantum states the electrons can go before the molicule splits.
But how high can the electrons go in theory and still preserve the molicule?
In a very low energy enviroment, I don't see why high energy electron orbits i.e. the classical orbits, could not be exist and be stable.

If 'classical' covalent bonding is possible under such circumstances, isn't it true that most particles in the universe are subject this long range covalent bonding, it's just the attractive force is so weak as to be negligable?
 
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  • #2
Molecule.

Only the ground state is stable, everything else will either split the molecule or decay to a lower energy state over time. What can happen where depends on the specific molecule.
meemoe_uk said:
If 'classical' covalent bonding is possible under such circumstances, isn't it true that most particles in the universe are subject this long range covalent bonding
No, most atoms don't have electrons in very high orbitals.
 

1. What is covalent bonding?

Covalent bonding is a type of chemical bonding between two atoms in which they share electrons in order to achieve a more stable electron configuration.

2. Why does covalent bonding have limited range?

Covalent bonding has limited range because it is a relatively weak bond compared to other types of chemical bonds, such as ionic or metallic bonds. This means that it can only hold atoms together within a certain distance and cannot extend over long distances.

3. What factors affect the range of covalent bonding?

The range of covalent bonding can be affected by several factors, including the types of atoms involved, the number of shared electrons, and the strength of the bond. Additionally, the size and shape of the molecules can also play a role in determining the range of covalent bonding.

4. How does the range of covalent bonding impact the properties of a substance?

The limited range of covalent bonding can greatly impact the properties of a substance. For example, substances with covalent bonds tend to have lower melting and boiling points, as the bonds can break more easily due to their weaker nature. Additionally, substances with covalent bonds may have lower electrical conductivity compared to substances with other types of chemical bonds.

5. Can the range of covalent bonding be extended?

Yes, the range of covalent bonding can be extended through the formation of multiple bonds between atoms. For example, carbon atoms can form single, double, or triple bonds with other carbon atoms, allowing for a wider range of bonding and the creation of more complex molecules.

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