Question

List the rule for the linear combination of atomic orbitals (LCAO) method.

Answer 1

Rules for the LCAO method are:

1)The same energy of combining orbitals: The combining atomic orbitals must be of equal energy or approximately same energy

2) Same symmetry along the atomic orbital:The combining atoms should have the same symmetry along the molecular axis for proper combination

3) Proper overlap between the atomic orbitals:The two atomic orbitals will combione to form molecular orbital. Greater is the extend of overlap of atomic orbital, greater will be the nuclear density.