Drawing Energy Level Diagrams for LiF Molecule: How To?

AI Thread Summary
To draw energy level diagrams for the LiF molecule, one must understand the molecular orbital theory and how it applies to diatomic molecules. The discussion highlights the importance of correctly placing electrons in bonding and antibonding orbitals, as improper placement can lead to an incorrect bond order, indicating no bonds are formed. Participants emphasize the need to refer to textbooks for specific orbital configurations and symmetry considerations. The conversation also touches on the stability of p electrons compared to s electrons in bonding scenarios. Accurate representation of electron distribution is crucial for determining the molecular properties of LiF.
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how do you draw the energy level diagrams for LiF molecule? i know how to draw an energy level digram for Li but how do you do it for a molecule?
 
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melissajohn said:
how do you draw the energy level diagrams for LiF molecule? i know how to draw an energy level digram for Li but how do you do it for a molecule?


Are you in Inorganic Chemistry?
 
yes i am... can you help?
 
Then this is a homework question ... you need to read your text and ask specific questions.
 
Where are all of the other 2p orbitals for Oxygen? What is the particular 2p orbital that would have the correct symmetry to overlap with the 2s orbital of Be? Where are all of the other valence electrons for Oxygen?

The diagram is partially correct , the p electrons of O are more stable than the 2s of Be.
 
ok i tried to fix it... i really hope this is right. please let me know if i am doing it right now. thanks.
 
here it is.
 

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melissajohn said:
here it is.

You got more electrons in the MO than in the AO , with the current setup BeO has a bond order of zero.
 
ok... i will delete some electrons from the MO.
 
  • #10
Again , the bond order is zero , this means that BeO has no bonds ... why are you putting the electrons in the antibonding orbitals?
 
  • #12
right... i don't think i put electrons in the antiboding orbitals for LiF
 
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