Final answer:
True, any two atomic orbitals can combine to form two molecular orbitals: one bonding and one antibonding orbital. This is because the combination of atomic orbitals yields a lower-energy, more stable bonding molecular orbital, and a higher-energy, less stable antibonding molecular orbital.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement "Can any two atomic orbitals combine to form two molecular orbitals" is true. Whenever two atomic orbitals overlap, they form two molecular orbitals: one lower-energy bonding molecular orbital and one higher-energy antibonding molecular orbital.
The interaction between atomic orbitals is optimal when they have similar energy levels. An example includes the combination of two He 1s atomic orbitals, which results in a σ1s bonding orbital and a σ*1s antibonding orbital, with the bonding molecular orbital being at lower energy than the atomic orbitals, providing increased stability for the molecule.
The atomic orbitals do not have to be identical, as molecular orbitals can also originate from different types of orbitals, such as an ns and an np atomic orbital, leading to a σ bonding and a σ* antibonding molecular orbital. Similarly, three np atomic orbitals from each atom can combine and form three bonding molecular orbitals and three antibonding molecular orbitals, where the bonding orbitals will be lower in energy, and the antibonding ones will be higher in energy.