The linear combination of atomic orbitals to form molecular orbitals takes place only when the combining atomic orbitals:

A. have the same energy
B. have the minimum overlap
C. have same symmetry abo

Question

The linear combination of atomic orbitals to form molecular orbitals takes place only when the combining atomic orbitals:

A. have the same energy
B. have the minimum overlap
C. have same symmetry about the molecular axis
D. have different symmetry about the molecular axis

Canvas Classes · Accepted Answer

Conditions for effective LCAO (Linear Combination of Atomic Orbitals):

A. Same energy: Combining AOs must have similar energies for effective interaction → Required ✓

B. Minimum overlap: This is incorrect — MO formation requires maximum overlap (not minimum) for strong bonding → Not required ✗

C. Same symmetry about molecular axis: AOs must have the same symmetry with respect to the molecular axis (e.g., both s-type, or both p-type along the bond axis) → Required ✓

D. Different symmetry: If

More questions from Chemical Bonding