Chapter 14, Problem 14.8YT

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Each MO shown in Figure 14-21 is to be labeled as bonding, antibonding, or nonbonding.

Concept introduction:

Overlap of atomic orbitals (AOs) can be thought of as wave interference. It can be destructive overlap or constructive overlap. Constructive interference increases the electron density between the two nuclei (an antinode) and results in a molecular orbital (MO) of lower energy. The phases of the overlapping orbitals are the same in this case. Destructive interference reduces the electron density between the two nuclei and results in an MO of higher energy. The phases of such AOs are opposite.

Non-bonding MOs are formed when there is neither constructive nor destructive interference between the AOs. The energy of the MO is the same as the contributing AOs.