Question

Which statement accurately describes the molecular orbitals of O₂, F₂, and Ne₂?

A. They exhibit no mixing between the 2s and 2p atomic orbitals.
B. They demonstrate significant mixing between the 2s and 2p atomic orbitals.
C. They exclusively consist of 2s atomic orbitals without any 2p involvement.
D. They possess identical molecular orbitals due to their similar atomic structures.

Answer 1

The molecular orbitals of O₂, F₂, and Ne₂ exhibit no mixing between the 2s and 2p atomic orbitals.

Step-by-step explanation:

The molecular orbitals of O₂, F₂, and Ne₂ follow the normal pattern without significant mixing between the 2s and 2p atomic orbitals. The energy difference between the 2s and 2p atomic orbitals in these molecules is greater than in other period 2 diatomic molecules, resulting in negligible s-p mixing. Therefore, option A, which states that there is no mixing between the 2s and 2p atomic orbitals, accurately describes these molecules.