2.13 - Covalent Bonding Flashcards
How is a covalent bond formed?
When orbitals from two atoms, each containing one electron, overlap
What is a covalent bond?
A shared pair of electrons
What is a sigma bond?
The overlapping of two s-orbitals or p-orbitals, end on
What is a pi bond?
The sideways overlapping of two p-orbitals
What does a sigma bond formation lead to?
The formation of a single covalent bond
What is special about a pi bond?
There are two electron clouds, and they can’t form until a sigma bond has formed
What type of covalent bond is formed by the combination of a sigma and pi bond?
A double or triple covalent bond
What type of covalent bond is strongest?
A multiple bond
What is the relationship between bond length and strength?
The shorter the bond, the stronger the bond
Why?
Because there is an increase in electrostatic attraction between the two nuclei and electrons in the overlapping orbitals
