Molecular Approach: Orbital Overlap in Chemistry
by Yuvi K - December 16, 2023
Molecular Approach: Orbital Overlap in Chemistry
The molecular approach to chemistry is the study of molecules and how their structure helps to predict their behaviour. This approach is best exemplified by orbital overlap, a theory which states that two atoms can form a bond when their orbitals overlap. This creates a strong intermolecular force, which is responsible for the chemical properties of the molecule.
Introduction To Orbital Overlap
Orbital overlap is an important concept in chemistry, as it explains how atoms form chemical bonds. It occurs when the outer shells of two atoms interact and share a space. This creates an energetic force which causes the atoms to be drawn together. Once the orbitals overlap, electrons are shared between the atoms, and this forms a stable bond.
Types of Bonds
Orbital overlap explains the formation of three types of bonds: covalent, ionic and hydrogen bonds.
- Covalent Bonds: Covalent bonds are the strongest type of bond and are formed when orbitals of two non-metal atoms interact and share electrons. This creates a single, strong bond that lasts for a very long time.
- Ionic Bonds: Ionic bonds are formed when orbitals of two metal atoms interact. One atom donates electrons and the other accepts them, creating an electrostatic force between the two atoms. This is a weaker bond than a covalent bond.
- Hydrogen Bonds: Hydrogen bonds are the weakest type of bond and are formed when orbitals of a hydrogen atom interact with orbitals of another atom. This creates an electrostatic force between the atoms that is not as strong as those in a covalent or ionic bond.
Molecular Orbital Theory
Molecular orbital theory is a further development of orbital overlap. It states that when two orbitals overlap, the electrons that are shared between them form a new orbital, known as a molecular orbital. These molecular orbitals can be either bonding or anti-bonding, depending on their orientation.
Bonding orbitals have a lower energy than the original of orbitals, therefore creating a strong bond between the two atoms. Anti-bonding orbitals, on the other hand, have a higher energy than the original orbitals, thus creating a weaker bond. This is important as it allows us to explain the reactivity of molecules.
Conclusion
Molecular orbital theory explains why and how certain molecules behave in certain ways. It explains why some molecules are more reactive than others, and why different properties are exhibited by different molecules. This knowledge is essential in fields such as organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry and biochemistry.
Overall, the orbital overlap is an important concept in chemistry that explains the formation of bonds between different atoms. Understanding this concept is essential for understanding the behaviour of molecules and their role in many chemical processes. It is also key for understanding how different molecules interact with each other.
(Article written by Pradnya Mhatre)
