Question

Which type of overlapping results in the formation of a $\pi$ bond?

• A. Axial overlapping of s-s orbitals
• B. Lateral overlapping of p-p orbitals
• C. Axial overlapping of p-p orbitals
• D. Axial overlapping of s-p orbitals

Answer 1

The correct option is B Lateral overlapping of p-p orbitals

$\pi$ orbital is formed by the side - wise overlapping of the orbitals.

s - orbital overlap will always form a sigma bond since it is uni- directional and overlaps heads on with other orbitals. It is also called as axial overlapping.

When atomic orbitals overlap, their axes remain parellel to each other and perpendicular to the internuclear axis to form $\pi$ bond.

Lateral overlapping of p-p orbitals forms a $\pi$ bond