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In F₂, which of the following orbitals has a nodal plane perpendicular to the internuclear axis at the midpoint of the bond?

a. σ²p
b. σ²p
c. σ²s
d. π²p
e. σ²s
f. π*²p

User Jahaad
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

In F₂, the σ²p orbital has a nodal plane perpendicular to the internuclear axis at the midpoint of the bond.

Step-by-step explanation:

A completely bonding molecular orbital contains no nodes (regions of zero electron probability) perpendicular to the internuclear axis, whereas a completely antibonding molecular orbital contains at least one node perpendicular to the internuclear axis. In F₂, the σ²p orbital has a nodal plane perpendicular to the internuclear axis at the midpoint of the bond. This means that the correct orbital from the given options is σ²p.

User Sauerburger
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