Question

According to molecular orbital theory, which of the following is true with respect to ${{\mathrm{Li}}_2}^{+}\mathrm{and}{{\mathrm{Li}}_2}^{-}$ ?

• A. Both are unstable
• B. ${\mathrm{Li}}_2^{+}$ is unstable and
  ${\mathrm{Li}}_2^{-}$ is stable
• C. ${\mathrm{Li}}_2^{+}$ is stable and
  ${\mathrm{Li}}_2^{-}$ is unstable
• D. Both are stable

Answer 1

The correct option is D Both are stable

Both ${\mathrm{Li}}_2^{-}$ and ${\mathrm{Li}}_2^{+}$ are stable because the bond order of each ${\mathrm{Li}}_2^{+}$and ${\mathrm{Li}}_2^{-}$ species is 0.5