Question

The combination of a p_z orbital and the out-of-phase LGO of two s orbitals yields a sigma bonding molecular orbital when the atoms are in a linear arrangement (first figure below, also see H-Be-H). in a bent arrangement like you might find in H_2O, this combination of orbitals yields a higher energy, and therefore, less stable molecular orbital (second figure below.) a) Why is the linear arrangement of these orbitals more stable than the bent arrangement? b) If the bond angle is further decreased, the energy of this orbital should rise dramatically despite only being compressed by -45 degree. Give two reasons for the dramatic increase in energy and sketch the resulting orbital interaction in the space provided.

Answer 1