Question

Which of the following best describes the molecular orbital theory of bonding? Choose one: A. A theory of bonding based on the mixing of atomic orbitals of similar shapes and energies to form molecular orbitals that extend to two or more atoms B. A theory where the bonds and lone pairs of valence electrons in a molecule are represented in two-dimensions C. A theory that predicts the arrangement of valence electron pairs around a central atom minimizing their mutual repulsion to produce the lowest-energy orientations D. A theory of bonding that describes bonds as the electrostatic attraction between species of opposite charge E. A theory of bonding that assumes covalent bonds form when half-filled orbitals on different atoms overlap or occupy the same region in space

Answer 1

The molecular orbital theory of bonding involves the combination of atomic orbitals to form molecular orbitals that can extend over multiple atoms, leading to the formation of stabilized and destabilized regions in a molecule depending on the phase of orbital combinations. So the correct option is A.

Step-by-step explanation:

The molecular orbital theory of bonding is best described by option A: A theory of bonding based on the mixing of atomic orbitals of similar shapes and energies to form molecular orbitals that extend over two or more atoms. This theory utilizes quantum mechanics to describe how electrons are distributed in a molecule, leading to the formation of bonding and antibonding molecular orbitals. Bonding molecular orbitals, which are in-phase combinations of atomic wave functions, stabilize a molecule, while antibonding molecular orbitals, resulting from out-of-phase combinations, make a molecule less stable. Molecular orbitals can incorporate atomic 's' and 'p' wave functions to form σ and π orbitals, respectively. A molecular orbital can hold up to two electrons with opposite spins, analogous to atomic orbitals in isolated atoms.

Answer 2

A. The molecular orbital theory of bonding is based on the mixing of atomic orbitals of similar shapes and energies to form molecular orbitals that extend to two or more atoms

Step-by-step explanation:

When two atoms come close to each other, the waves of their atomic orbitals can interfere constructively or destructively, to form two new molecular orbitals that encompass the whole molecule.

B is wrong. It refers to Lewis structures.

C is wrong. It refers to VSEPR theory.

D is wrong. It refers to ionic bonding.

E. is wrong. It refers to valence bond theory.