The linear combination of atomic orbitals to form molecular orbitals takes place only when the combining atomic orbitals
A. have the same energy B. have the minimum overlap C. have same symmetry about the molecular axis D. have different symmetry about the molecular axis
Choose the most appropriate from the options given below:

Question

The linear combination of atomic orbitals to form molecular orbitals takes place only when the combining atomic orbitals

A. have the same energy B. have the minimum overlap C. have same symmetry about the molecular axis D. have different symmetry about the molecular axis

Choose the most appropriate from the options given below:

Quantrex Academy · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: B. A and C only

The given conditions should be satisfied by atomic orbitals to form molecular orbitals:

(a) The atomic orbital with one electron (completely half filled) can take part in combination or overlapping.

(b) During the time of overlap, the combining orbitals must have opposite spins of electrons.

(c) The combining atomic orbitals must have the same or nearly the same energy. This means that in a homonuclear molecule, the $1$ s-atomic orbital of an atom can combine with the $1$ s-atomic orbital of another atom, and not with the $2$ s-orbital.

(d) The combining atomic orbitals must have proper orientations to ensure that the overlap is maximum.

(e) The extent of overlapping should be large.

The combining atoms should have the same symmetry around the molecular axis for proper combination, otherwise, the electron density will be sparse.

Hence option B is the answer.

The linear combination of atomic orbitals to form molecular...

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