NEETChemistryChemical Bonding and Molecular Structure
What is the difference between an atomic orbital and a molecular orbital in terms of influence by nuclei?
Options
- AAtomic orbitals are influenced by two or more nuclei, while molecular orbitals are influenced by one nucleus.
- BAtomic orbitals are monocentric, while molecular orbitals are polycentric.
- CBoth atomic and molecular orbitals are monocentric.
- DBoth atomic and molecular orbitals are polycentric.
Correct answer
B. Atomic orbitals are monocentric, while molecular orbitals are polycentric.
Step-by-step solution
An atomic orbital is monocentric, influenced by one nucleus, while a molecular orbital is polycentric, influenced by two or more nuclei.