Question

Which of the following statement is incorrect according to the linear combination of atomic orbitals?

• A. The combining atomic orbitals must overlap to the maximum extent
• B. The combining atomic orbitals must have the same or nearly the same energy
• C. The combining atomic orbitals must have the same symmetry about the molecular axis
• D. Atomic orbitals having same or nearly the same energy can combine if they do not have the same symmetry

Answer 1

The correct option is D Atomic orbitals having same or nearly the same energy can combine if they do not have the same symmetry

The conditions for linear combination of atomic orbitals are:
The combining atomic orbitals must overlap to the maximum extent for stability.
The combining atomic orbitals must have the same symmetry about the molecular axis.
The combining atomic orbitals must have the same or nearly the same energy.
Atomic orbitals having same or nearly the same energy will not combine if they do not have the same symmetry.