Question

What is the total number of sigma (σ) and pi (π) bonds in a molecule of ethyne (C2H2)? A) 3 sigma bonds, 1 pi bond B) 2 sigma bonds, 2 pi bonds C) 3 sigma bonds, 2 pi bonds D) 1 sigma bond, 3 pi bonds​

Answer 1

What is the total number of sigma (σ) and pi (π) bonds in a molecule of ethyne (C2H2)?

A) 3 sigma bonds, 1 pi bond

B) 2 sigma bonds, 2 pi bonds

C) 3 sigma bonds, 2 pi bonds ✓

• Pi bonds are formed when half filled atomic orbitals ,also called p orbitals of atoms get laterally overlapped.
• Sigma bond is formed when the atomic orbitals get head-on overlapped.

D) 1 sigma bond, 3 pi bonds

Answer 2

C) 3 sigma bonds, 2 pi bonds

In a molecule of ethyne (C2H2), each carbon atom is bonded to two hydrogen atoms and one other carbon atom. Each carbon-carbon bond consists of one sigma (σ) bond and two pi (π) bonds. So, for the triple bond between the two carbon atoms in ethyne, you have one sigma (σ) bond and two pi (π) bonds. Additionally, each carbon atom forms a sigma (σ) bond with a hydrogen atom.

So, in total, there are 3 sigma (σ) bonds and 2 pi (π) bonds in a molecule of ethyne.