Question

The strength of sigma bonds formed by the axial overlap of $s$ - or $p$ - orbitals of $2^{nd}$ shell of the participating atoms decreases as:

• A. $s-s>p-s>p-p$
• B. $s-s>p-p>s-p$
• C. $p-s>s-s>p-p$
• D. $p-p>s-p>s-s$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $p-p>s-p>s-s$

More the extent of overlap, more is the strength of bonds. $p$-orbitals have more axial overlap than $s$-orbitals. Directional property of $p$-orbital is dominating here, more the directional nature more the strength of sigma bond. Hence, the order is $p-p>s-p>s-s$.