- #1
kichigai
I read in Cotton & Winkinson that some bonds can have 3 electrons in them. HOw is this possible?
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Discussion Overview
The discussion centers around the existence and nature of bonds involving three electrons, particularly in the context of chemical bonding theories and examples. Participants explore various types of bonds, including triple bonds and potentially three-centered bonds, while referencing specific literature on the topic.
Discussion Character
- Exploratory
- Technical explanation
- Debate/contested
Main Points Raised
- Some participants mention the triple bond between carbon atoms as an example of a bond that involves multiple electrons, specifically referencing the structure H:C:::C:H.
- There is a discussion about the nature of sigma and pi bonds, with one participant suggesting that sigma bonds are primary bonds and pi bonds follow, each contributing two electrons to the bond count.
- One participant raises a question about the role of wave functions in understanding these bonds, seeking a deeper explanation.
- Another participant introduces the concept of three-centered bonds, using H3+ as an example where three atoms share two electrons.
- There is a suggestion that the reference to three electron bonds might relate to average bonding scenarios, such as delocalization in certain functional groups.
- Participants clarify the source of the original claim about three electron bonds, correcting it to Linus Pauling's work rather than Cotton & Wilkinson.
Areas of Agreement / Disagreement
Participants express differing views on the nature of bonds involving three electrons, with some focusing on traditional bonding theories and others suggesting alternative interpretations. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the specific nature and examples of such bonds.
Contextual Notes
Some claims rely on specific interpretations of bonding theories, and there are references to literature that may not fully address the nuances of the topic. The discussion includes assumptions about electron sharing and bonding that are not universally agreed upon.