Question

According to valence bond theory, which orbitals overlap in the formation of the bond in HCl?

a) 1s on H and 3p on Cl
b) 1s on H and 4s on Cl
c) 1s on H and 2p on Cl
d) 2s on H and 3p on Cl
e) 2s on H and 2p on Cl

Answer 1

a) 1s on H and 3p on Cl

In HCl, the H atom has only one valance electron. Each share an electron an therefore a single covalent bond is formed between the two. The bond in HCl is therefore a result of an overlap between 1s orbital and ONLY ONE of the lobes of the 3p orbital of Chlorine.