Question

Assuming the bond direction to be Z-axis, which of the overlapping of atomic orbitals of two atoms A and B will be result in bonding; (I) s orbital of A and $p_x$ orbital of B, (II) s orbital of A and $p_z$ orbital of B (III) $p_y$ orbital of A and $p_z$ orbital of B, (IV) s- orbitals of A and B

• A. I
• B. II
• C. III
• D. IV

Answer 1

The correct option is D II & IV

For sigma bond formation the orbitals must lie along the internuclear axis. Here, Z is the internuclear axis, and hence among the p orbitals only $p_z$ orbital is capable of forming bond with s orbital.

A sigma bond (σ ) forms when two atomic orbitals overlap between the nuclei of two atoms (also known as the internuclear axis ).