Formal Charge


 Formal Charge

 

 Definition of Formal Charge

 

Formal charge is a theoretical concept used to determine the distribution of electrons in a molecule, particularly for resonance structures. It is the hypothetical charge assigned to an atom in a molecule assuming that electrons in all chemical bonds are equally shared between atoms, regardless of their electronegativity.

 

The formal charge (FC) on an atom in a molecule or ion is calculated using the following formula:

 

\[

\text{Formal Charge (FC)} = \text{Valence Electrons} - \left( \frac{\text{Bonding Electrons}}{2} + \text{Non-bonding Electrons} \right)

\]

 

Where:

- Valence Electrons: The number of electrons in the outermost shell of the isolated atom.

- Bonding Electrons: Electrons involved in bonding (shared between atoms).

- Non-bonding Electrons: Lone pairs or unshared electrons on the atom.

Importance of Formal Charge

 

1. Determining the Most Stable Resonance Structure:

   - Formal charge helps identify the most stable resonance structure of a molecule. In general, the resonance structure with formal charges closest to zero and with negative formal charges on more electronegative atoms is considered the most stable.

 

2. Assessing Electron Distribution:

   - Formal charge helps chemists understand how electrons are distributed in a molecule, which in turn helps predict molecular properties such as bond strength, reactivity, and dipole moments.

 

3. Predicting Molecular Geometry:

   - Formal charge can influence the prediction of molecular geometry, especially when it comes to understanding resonance structures and bond angles.

 

 

 

 Formal Charge Calculation Steps

 

To calculate the formal charge on an atom in a molecule:

 

1. Determine the Valence Electrons: 

   Find the number of valence electrons for the atom based on its position in the periodic table.

  

2. Count Non-Bonding Electrons: 

   Determine the number of lone pair electrons (non-bonding electrons) on the atom.

 

3. Count Bonding Electrons: 

   For each bond, count the total bonding electrons shared between atoms and divide them equally between the two bonded atoms.

 

4. Apply the Formula: 

   Use the formula \( \text{Formal Charge} = \text{Valence Electrons} - \left( \frac{\text{Bonding Electrons}}{2} + \text{Non-bonding Electrons} \right) \) to calculate the formal charge on the atom.

Example: Formal Charge on Oxygen in Ozone (O\(_3\))

 

Consider ozone, \( O_3 \), where the resonance structures are written as:

 

\[

O=O-O \quad \text{and} \quad O-O=O

\]

 

Let's calculate the formal charge on each oxygen atom in one resonance structure:

 

1. Central Oxygen (in the structure \( O=O-O \)):

   - Valence Electrons: 6 (since oxygen is in Group 16).

   - Bonding Electrons: The central oxygen is double-bonded to one oxygen and single-bonded to the other, so it has a total of 4 bonding electrons in the double bond and 2 in the single bond, for a total of 6 bonding electrons.

   - Non-Bonding Electrons: The central oxygen has one lone pair (2 non-bonding electrons).

  

   \[

   \text{Formal Charge (central O)} = 6 - \left( \frac{6}{2} + 2 \right) = 6 - (3 + 2) = 6 - 5 = +1

   \]

 

2. Oxygen in Double Bond:

   - Valence Electrons: 6.

   - Bonding Electrons: The oxygen is involved in a double bond, so it has 4 bonding electrons.

   - Non-Bonding Electrons: The oxygen has 2 lone pairs (4 non-bonding electrons).

  

   \[

   \text{Formal Charge (double-bonded O)} = 6 - \left( \frac{4}{2} + 4 \right) = 6 - (2 + 4) = 6 - 6 = 0

   \]

 

3. Oxygen in Single Bond:

   - Valence Electrons: 6.

   - Bonding Electrons: The oxygen is single-bonded to the central oxygen, so it has 2 bonding electrons.

   - Non-Bonding Electrons: The oxygen has 3 lone pairs (6 non-bonding electrons).

  

   \[

   \text{Formal Charge (single-bonded O)} = 6 - \left( \frac{2}{2} + 6 \right) = 6 - (1 + 6) = 6 - 7 = -1

   \]

 

Thus, in the resonance structure \( O=O-O \), the formal charges are +1 on the central oxygen, 0 on the double-bonded oxygen, and -1 on the single-bonded oxygen.

 

 

 

 General Rules for Formal Charge in Resonance Structures

 

1. Formal Charge Close to Zero:

   - The resonance structure with formal charges closest to zero is generally more stable. Structures with formal charges far from zero are less favored.

  

2. Negative Formal Charge on Electronegative Atoms:

   - If a formal charge is present, it is more stable when the negative charge is on the more electronegative atom.

  

3. Minimizing Formal Charge:

   - The total formal charge of a molecule should equal its overall charge. For neutral molecules, the sum of all formal charges should be zero. For ions, the sum of the formal charges should equal the ion’s charge.

Example: Formal Charge in Sulfate Ion (\(SO_4^{2-}\))

 

Let's calculate the formal charge on sulfur and oxygen in the sulfate ion, \(SO_4^{2-}\):

 

- Sulfur (S) forms four bonds with oxygen.

- Oxygen (O) forms two single bonds with sulfur and has two lone pairs in each case.

 

1. Sulfur:

   - Valence Electrons: 6 (as sulfur is in Group 16).

   - Bonding Electrons: Sulfur forms 4 bonds, so it has 8 bonding electrons.

   - Non-Bonding Electrons: No lone pairs on sulfur.

  

   \[

   \text{Formal Charge (S)} = 6 - \left( \frac{8}{2} + 0 \right) = 6 - 4 = +2

   \]

 

2. Oxygen (each oxygen atom):

   - Valence Electrons: 6.

   - Bonding Electrons: Each oxygen forms a single bond, so it has 2 bonding electrons.

   - Non-Bonding Electrons: Each oxygen has 3 lone pairs (6 non-bonding electrons).

  

   \[

   \text{Formal Charge (O)} = 6 - \left( \frac{2}{2} + 6 \right) = 6 - (1 + 6) = 6 - 7 = -1

   \]

 

Thus, the formal charge on sulfur is +2, and each oxygen has a formal charge of -1. The total charge on the sulfate ion is -2, consistent with the ion's charge.

Significance of Formal Charge in Resonance Structures

 

Formal charge is used to evaluate the stability of different resonance structures. The resonance structure with the least formal charge and with negative charges placed on more electronegative atoms is the most stable. For example, in molecules like carbonate (\(CO_3^{2-}\)) or nitrate (\(NO_3^-\)), formal charge helps determine which resonance structures contribute most to the actual structure.

Conclusion

 

Formal charge is a powerful tool for determining the most likely resonance structure, assessing molecular stability, and understanding electron distribution within molecules. By minimizing formal charge and assigning negative charges to the most electronegative atoms, chemists can predict the most stable molecular structures.

Here’s how formal charge influences molecular shape:

 

 

 

 1. Resonance Structures and Formal Charge Distribution

Formal charge helps determine which resonance structure is most likely to contribute to the actual electron distribution. Resonance structures are different ways of drawing a molecule to represent the delocalization of electrons. The structure with the least formal charge or formal charges closest to zero is generally the most stable and therefore the one that most influences molecular shape.

 

- Example: Carbonate Ion (CO\(_3^{2-}\)) 

  The carbonate ion (\(CO_3^{2-}\)) has three resonance structures, with different locations for the double bonds between carbon and oxygen. In each structure, the formal charges are distributed differently. However, the resonance hybrid (an average of these structures) has no formal charges significantly away from zero, and the bonds are treated as partially double bonds.

 

  This resonance and delocalization of electron density give the carbonate ion a trigonal planar shape, with bond angles of approximately 120°.

 

  \[

  \text{Resonance hybrid for } CO_3^{2-}: O=C-O^{-} \leftrightarrow O^{-}-C=O

  \]

 

  The minimized formal charge on the atoms helps explain why all oxygen atoms appear equivalent and why the molecule adopts a symmetrical planar shape.

 

 

 

 2. Stability and Bonding Patterns

 

When formal charge is minimized in a molecule, the stability of the molecule increases. Stable molecules tend to have predictable bonding patterns, which influence molecular geometry. Formal charge helps ensure that the electron distribution is balanced, which prevents the molecule from adopting distorted or high-energy shapes.

 

- Example: Sulfate Ion (SO\(_4^{2-}\)) 

  In the sulfate ion, \(SO_4^{2-}\), resonance structures distribute formal charges differently, but the most stable configuration minimizes formal charge to +2 on sulfur and -1 on each oxygen atom. The geometry around the sulfur atom is tetrahedral, with bond angles close to 109.5°. This is because sulfur uses its available d-orbitals to form equivalent bonds with oxygen atoms, and the formal charge distribution ensures that this symmetry is maintained.

 

 

 

 3. Influence on Bond Length and Bond Angles

 

Formal charge can influence bond length and bond angles by affecting the way electrons are distributed in a molecule. If formal charge indicates partial bond character (such as in resonance hybrids), the actual bond length can differ from what is expected in single or double bonds. This, in turn, affects the geometry of the molecule.

 

- Example: Ozone (O\(_3\)) 

  Ozone has a resonance structure in which formal charges are distributed unevenly between the central oxygen atom and the outer oxygen atoms. The formal charge on the central oxygen atom is +1, and the negative charge is delocalized over the two outer oxygen atoms. This creates a bond order between a single and double bond for the oxygen-oxygen bonds.

 

  As a result, the bond angles in ozone are about 117°, slightly less than the typical 120° found in ideal trigonal planar structures, due to the effect of lone pairs and the unequal distribution of formal charge. The bond lengths are also shorter than a typical single bond but longer than a double bond due to resonance.

 

 

 

 4. Formal Charge and the Octet Rule

 

Formal charge calculations also help in determining whether a molecule adheres to or violates the octet rule. When an atom exceeds its octet, it often does so because it minimizes formal charge by sharing electrons in expanded valence shells. This ability to expand the valence shell, particularly for atoms like sulfur or phosphorus, influences the shape of the molecule.

 

- Example: Phosphorus Pentachloride (PCl\(_5\)) 

  In phosphorus pentachloride, phosphorus forms five bonds with chlorine atoms. The formal charge on phosphorus is minimized by expanding its octet, and the resulting geometry is trigonal bipyramidal. Without formal charge considerations, it would be difficult to predict this expanded geometry.

 

 

 

 5. Choosing the Correct Resonance Structure and Shape

 

Molecules often have multiple resonance structures, but formal charge helps determine which structure best reflects the actual molecular geometry. The resonance structure with the least formal charge and the most negative charges on the most electronegative atoms will contribute most to the actual molecular structure. This in turn gives insight into the correct molecular shape.

 

- Example: Nitrite Ion (NO\(_2^{-}\)) 

  The nitrite ion (\(NO_2^{-}\)) has two resonance structures where the formal charge is distributed between nitrogen and oxygen. By analyzing the formal charges, we find that nitrogen has a +1 formal charge and one oxygen has a -1 charge, while the other oxygen has no formal charge. This distribution suggests that the nitrogen-oxygen bonds are of equal length due to resonance, and the overall shape is bent (around 115°), as predicted by the VSEPR theory, with lone pairs on nitrogen influencing the shape.

 

 

 

 Conclusion

 

In summary, formal charge affects molecular shape by:

- Helping identify the most stable resonance structure, which dictates the actual arrangement of atoms.

- Influencing bond angles and bond lengths through its effect on electron distribution.

- Minimizing formal charge to stabilize molecular geometry and predict molecular shapes, such as trigonal planar, tetrahedral, or bent geometries.

- Ensuring that the molecular structure follows the octet rule or justifies exceptions to it, particularly in the case of expanded octets.

 

Understanding formal charge allows chemists to better predict molecular geometry and the shape of molecules, both of which are crucial in understanding chemical reactivity and physical properties.

Questions

Q 1. What are the formal charges on the carbon and oxygen atoms and the formal charge difference, \(\triangle \mathrm{FC}\), in the Lewis (electron dot) structure of carbon dioxide shown in the figure?\n\[\n\ddot{0}=c=\ddot{0}\n\];

(A) \(+4,-2\) and +6;

(B) \(+4,+4\) and 0;

(C) \(+4,+2\) and +2;

(D) 0,0 and 0;

Lone Pair-Bond Pair Repulsion


 Lone Pair-Bond Pair Repulsion

 

 Introduction to VSEPR Theory

 

The VSEPR theory (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion theory) explains the shapes of molecules by considering the repulsion between electron pairs around a central atom. According to VSEPR theory, the geometry of a molecule is determined by minimizing the repulsion between both bonding electron pairs (bond pairs) and non-bonding electron pairs (lone pairs) around the central atom. Lone pair-bond pair repulsion is a crucial concept in this theory because it explains deviations from ideal geometries and affects bond angles.

 

 

 

 Types of Electron Pair Interactions

 

1. Lone Pair-Lone Pair Repulsion:

   - Lone pairs occupy more space around the central atom because they are not shared between atoms. Therefore, they repel each other strongly.

   - This repulsion is the strongest among all types of repulsions.

 

2. Lone Pair-Bond Pair Repulsion:

   - Lone pairs also repel bonding pairs because lone pairs are localized closer to the central atom and occupy more space than bonding pairs.

   - This repulsion is moderate but greater than bond pair-bond pair repulsion.

  

3. Bond Pair-Bond Pair Repulsion:

   - Bonding pairs are shared between two atoms, and they experience the least repulsion since the electron density is spread over a larger region between the two nuclei.

 

The order of repulsion strength is:

\[

\text{Lone Pair-Lone Pair (LP-LP) > Lone Pair-Bond Pair (LP-BP) > Bond Pair-Bond Pair (BP-BP)}

\]

 

 

 

 Effect of Lone Pair-Bond Pair Repulsion on Molecular Geometry

 

Lone pair-bond pair repulsion affects the geometry of molecules by compressing bond angles and distorting ideal shapes. Since lone pairs occupy more space than bonding pairs, they push the bond pairs closer together, reducing the bond angles from their ideal values.

 

1. Tetrahedral Molecules:

   - In a perfect tetrahedral geometry (with no lone pairs), the bond angles are 109.5°. However, when lone pairs are present, lone pair-bond pair repulsion decreases these bond angles.

 

   Example: Ammonia (NH\(_3\)) 

   - In ammonia, nitrogen has three bonding pairs (forming N-H bonds) and one lone pair. The lone pair-bond pair repulsion compresses the bond angle from the ideal tetrahedral angle of 109.5° to about 107°.

  

   Structure: 

   - The geometry of NH\(_3\) is trigonal pyramidal, and the lone pair occupies more space, leading to the reduced bond angle.

 

2. Bent (V-Shaped) Molecules:

   - In molecules with two bonding pairs and two lone pairs (like water), lone pair-bond pair repulsion further reduces bond angles.

 

   Example: Water (H\(_2\)O) 

   - In water, oxygen has two bonding pairs (H-O bonds) and two lone pairs. The lone pair-bond pair repulsion is stronger than bond pair-bond pair repulsion, which compresses the bond angle from the ideal tetrahedral angle (109.5°) to around 104.5°.

  

   Structure: 

   - Water has a bent molecular shape due to lone pair-bond pair repulsion.

 

3. Trigonal Bipyramidal Molecules:

   - In a trigonal bipyramidal structure (such as in \(PCl_5\)), lone pairs preferentially occupy equatorial positions to minimize lone pair-bond pair repulsion, since equatorial positions are less crowded.

 

   Example: Sulfur Tetrafluoride (SF\(_4\)) 

   - In \(SF_4\), sulfur has four bond pairs and one lone pair. The lone pair occupies an equatorial position, resulting in a seesaw geometry, with bond angles of 90° and 120°. Lone pair-bond pair repulsion distorts the bond angles from their ideal values.

  

   Structure: 

   - The lone pair causes the axial bonds to experience greater repulsion, distorting the bond angles from the ideal 90° and 120°.

 

4. Octahedral Molecules:

   - In an octahedral geometry, lone pairs prefer to occupy axial positions because lone pair-bond pair repulsion is minimized when the lone pair is as far away from the bonding pairs as possible.

 

   Example: Xenon Tetrafluoride (XeF\(_4\)) 

   - In \(XeF_4\), xenon has four bonding pairs and two lone pairs. The lone pairs occupy opposite axial positions, resulting in a square planar structure. Lone pair-bond pair repulsion ensures that the bond angles remain close to 90° in the equatorial plane.

 

 

 

 Molecular Examples with Lone Pair-Bond Pair Repulsion

 

1. Ammonia (NH\(_3\)):

   - Geometry: Trigonal Pyramidal

   - Lone Pairs: 1

   - Bond Pairs: 3

   - Ideal Bond Angle: 109.5° 

   - Actual Bond Angle: 107°

   - Explanation: The lone pair on nitrogen repels the bonding pairs, compressing the bond angles slightly.

 

2. Water (H\(_2\)O\)):

   - Geometry: Bent

   - Lone Pairs: 2

   - Bond Pairs: 2

   - Ideal Bond Angle: 109.5° 

   - Actual Bond Angle: 104.5°

   - Explanation: Two lone pairs on oxygen create strong lone pair-bond pair repulsion, reducing the bond angle further.

 

3. Sulfur Tetrafluoride (SF\(_4\)):

   - Geometry: Seesaw

   - Lone Pairs: 1

   - Bond Pairs: 4

   - Bond Angles: ~90° and ~120°

   - Explanation: The lone pair occupies an equatorial position, causing bond pairs to shift slightly, resulting in a seesaw shape with distorted bond angles.

 

4. Xenon Tetrafluoride (XeF\(_4\)):

   - Geometry: Square Planar

   - Lone Pairs: 2

   - Bond Pairs: 4

   - Ideal Bond Angle: 90°

   - Actual Bond Angle: Close to 90°

   - Explanation: The lone pairs occupy opposite axial positions, leading to a square planar structure with minimal distortion in bond angles.

 

 

 

 Key Points to Remember

 

- Lone pairs occupy more space than bonding pairs because they are localized closer to the nucleus, creating stronger repulsion.

- Lone pair-bond pair repulsion compresses bond angles from their ideal values, leading to deviations in molecular geometry.

- The presence of lone pairs often changes the molecular geometry predicted by VSEPR theory, resulting in non-ideal shapes such as bent or trigonal pyramidal structures.

- Lone pairs tend to occupy positions that minimize repulsion, such as equatorial positions in trigonal bipyramidal structures or axial positions in octahedral structures.

 

 

 

 Conclusion

 

Lone pair-bond pair repulsion is an important concept in understanding molecular geometry through VSEPR theory. It explains why molecules deviate from ideal bond angles and adopt shapes like bent, trigonal pyramidal, and seesaw geometries. Lone pairs, due to their strong repulsion with bonding pairs, affect the spatial arrangement of atoms in molecules, making it essential to account for this when predicting molecular shapes.

Questions

Q 1. The sum of the number of lone pairs of electrons on each central atom in the following species is\n\(\left[\mathrm{TeBr}_{6}\right]^{2-},\left[\mathrm{BrF}_{2}\right]^{+}, S N F_{3}\) and \(\left[\mathrm{XeF}_{3}\right]^{-}\)[Atomic number :\n\(N=7, F=9, S=16, B r=35, T e=52, X e=54]\);

(A)5;

(B)6;

(C)4;

(D)8;

Lone Pairs


 Lone Pairs

 

 Definition of Lone Pairs

 

A lone pair refers to a pair of valence electrons on an atom that are not shared with any other atom and are not involved in chemical bonding. These electrons remain localized on a single atom, occupying space around the central atom and influencing the molecule's geometry. Lone pairs are sometimes referred to as non-bonding electrons because they do not participate in the formation of covalent bonds.

 

Lone pairs play a critical role in determining the shape, reactivity, and polarity of molecules, especially in systems where the VSEPR theory applies. The presence of lone pairs affects bond angles and molecular geometry due to the repulsion they exert on bonding electron pairs.

Lone Pairs and VSEPR Theory

 

According to the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory, electron pairs (both bonding and non-bonding) around a central atom repel each other and try to adopt a spatial arrangement that minimizes these repulsions. Since lone pairs are localized closer to the nucleus than bonding pairs, they occupy more space and exert stronger repulsion on adjacent bonding pairs, affecting bond angles and molecular shapes.

 Examples of Lone Pairs in Common Molecules

 

1. Ammonia (NH\(_3\)):

   - Lone Pairs: 1 (on nitrogen)

   - Bonding Pairs: 3 (N-H bonds)

   - Molecular Geometry: Trigonal Pyramidal

   - Bond Angle: The ideal tetrahedral bond angle (109.5°) is compressed to 107° due to the lone pair on nitrogen, which exerts greater repulsion on the bonding pairs.

 

2. Water (H\(_2\)O):

   - Lone Pairs: 2 (on oxygen)

   - Bonding Pairs: 2 (O-H bonds)

   - Molecular Geometry: Bent (V-shaped)

   - Bond Angle: The presence of two lone pairs compresses the bond angle from the ideal tetrahedral angle of 109.5° to about 104.5°. The lone pairs push the bonding pairs closer together.

 

3. Sulfur Dioxide (SO\(_2\)):

   - Lone Pairs: 1 (on sulfur)

   - Bonding Pairs: 2 (S-O bonds)

   - Molecular Geometry: Bent

   - Bond Angle: The lone pair on sulfur distorts the ideal geometry, resulting in a bent shape with a bond angle of about 119°.

 

4. Xenon Tetrafluoride (XeF\(_4\)):

   - Lone Pairs: 2 (on xenon)

   - Bonding Pairs: 4 (Xe-F bonds)

   - Molecular Geometry: Square Planar

   - Bond Angle: Lone pairs occupy the axial positions in the octahedral geometry, leading to a square planar shape with bond angles of 90°.

Effect of Lone Pairs on Molecular Geometry

 

1. Lone Pairs Occupy More Space:

   - Lone pairs are localized closer to the central atom compared to bonding pairs. As a result, they exert stronger repulsion on bonding pairs and distort the ideal geometry predicted by VSEPR theory. This distortion reduces the bond angles and leads to deviations from ideal shapes.

  

2. Influence on Bond Angles:

   - The presence of lone pairs reduces the bond angles from their ideal values because lone pairs repel bonding pairs more strongly. For example, in a molecule with a tetrahedral electron geometry (109.5°), lone pairs compress the bond angles to values less than 109.5°.

 

   Example: 

   - In water (H\(_2\)O), the bond angle is reduced from the tetrahedral angle of 109.5° to 104.5° due to the repulsion from the two lone pairs on oxygen.

 

3. Lone Pair-Bond Pair Repulsion:

   - Lone pairs strongly repel adjacent bond pairs, pushing them closer together. This repulsion leads to deviations from the ideal bond angles and changes the molecular geometry. For example, in ammonia (NH\(_3\)), the lone pair on nitrogen compresses the bond angles to 107°.

 

4. Electron Geometry vs. Molecular Geometry:

   - The electron geometry considers both bonding pairs and lone pairs, while the molecular geometry only considers bonding pairs. For instance, water (H\(_2\)O\)) has an electron geometry of tetrahedral (due to two bonding pairs and two lone pairs) but a bent molecular geometry (considering only the bonding pairs).

 

   Example: 

   - In ammonia (NH\(_3\)), the electron geometry is tetrahedral, but the molecular geometry is trigonal pyramidal due to the presence of one lone pair on nitrogen.

Lone Pairs and Hybridization

 

Lone pairs also affect the hybridization of orbitals in molecules. The presence of lone pairs influences how orbitals mix to form hybrid orbitals, which directly affects the molecular shape and bond angles.

 

1. sp\(^3\) Hybridization:

   - In molecules with tetrahedral electron geometry, such as water (H\(_2\)O), the central atom undergoes sp\(^3\) hybridization. Two of the hybrid orbitals are occupied by lone pairs, leading to a bent geometry rather than a perfect tetrahedral shape.

 

   Example: 

   - In ammonia (NH\(_3\)), nitrogen undergoes sp\(^3\) hybridization, but one of the hybrid orbitals contains a lone pair, resulting in a trigonal pyramidal geometry.

 

2. sp\(^2\) Hybridization:

   - Lone pairs can also exist in sp\(^2\)-hybridized atoms, such as in sulfur dioxide (SO\(_2\)). Here, sulfur is sp\(^2\) hybridized, and one of the hybrid orbitals contains a lone pair, leading to a bent molecular shape.

Effect of Lone Pairs on Molecular Polarity

 

Lone pairs influence the polarity of a molecule because they create an asymmetric distribution of electron density. Molecules with lone pairs on the central atom are often polar because the electron cloud is distorted, creating a dipole moment.

 

1. Example: Water (H\(_2\)O):

   - Water is a polar molecule because of the lone pairs on oxygen. The lone pairs create a region of negative charge on one side of the molecule, while the hydrogen atoms create a region of positive charge. This results in a dipole moment, making water a polar molecule.

 

2. Example: Ammonia (NH\(_3\)):

   - Ammonia is polar due to the lone pair on nitrogen, which distorts the electron cloud and creates a dipole moment. The molecule is asymmetric, with nitrogen carrying a partial negative charge, while the hydrogen atoms carry partial positive charges.

 

3. Non-Polar Molecules with Lone Pairs:

   - Some molecules with lone pairs are non-polar due to their symmetry. For example, xenon tetrafluoride (XeF\(_4\)) has two lone pairs, but the molecular geometry is square planar, making the overall molecule non-polar as the dipoles cancel each other out.

Key Points to Remember

 

- Lone pairs exert greater repulsion than bonding pairs due to their closer proximity to the nucleus, leading to distortions in molecular geometry.

- The presence of lone pairs reduces bond angles, compressing them from their ideal values (e.g., reducing tetrahedral angles from 109.5° to less in molecules like ammonia and water).

- Lone pairs influence molecular polarity by creating regions of electron density, which can result in dipole moments in molecules like water and ammonia.

- Hybridization of the central atom is also affected by lone pairs, altering the predicted geometry based on the number of bonding pairs and lone pairs.

Conclusion

Lone pairs are a key factor in determining the shape, polarity, and bond angles of molecules. They occupy more space than bonding pairs, leading to greater repulsion and compression of bond angles. Their influence on molecular geometry and hybridization makes them an essential concept in understanding molecular behaviour.

Questions

Q 1. Find the number of lone pairs of electrons present in a \(\mathrm{OF}_{2}\) molecule.;

(A)6;

(B)8;

(C)5;

(D)4;

Dipole Moment


 Dipole Moment

 

 Definition of Dipole Moment

 

A dipole moment is a measure of the separation of positive and negative charges in a molecule. It quantifies the polarity of a molecule, which arises due to differences in electronegativity between atoms in a bond. The dipole moment is a vector quantity, with both magnitude and direction, representing the extent of charge separation and the direction from the positive to the negative pole.

The dipole moment (\( \mu \)) is given by the formula:

 

\[

\mu = q \times d

\]

 

Where:

- \( q \) is the magnitude of the charge separation (in coulombs, C),

- \( d \) is the distance between the charges (in meters, m),

- \( \mu \) is expressed in Debye units (D), where \(1 \, \text{D} = 3.336 \times 10^{-30} \, \text{C·m}\).

Polarity and Dipole Moment

 

A molecule is said to be polar if it has a net dipole moment. This occurs when the molecule has a non-uniform distribution of electron density, leading to partial positive and negative charges within the molecule. Polar molecules have regions of charge imbalance, which affects their physical properties, such as solubility and boiling point.

 

Non-polar molecules, on the other hand, either do not have any dipole moments or have dipoles that cancel each other out due to symmetrical geometry.

Factors Affecting Dipole Moment

 

1. Electronegativity Difference:

   - A significant electronegativity difference between two bonded atoms creates a polar covalent bond, where the more electronegative atom pulls the bonding electrons closer, resulting in partial charges. The greater the electronegativity difference, the greater the dipole moment.

 

   Example: 

   - The H-Cl bond in hydrogen chloride (HCl) has a dipole moment because chlorine is more electronegative than hydrogen, creating a partial negative charge on chlorine and a partial positive charge on hydrogen.

 

2. Bond Length:

   - The dipole moment is directly proportional to the distance between the charges. Therefore, longer bond lengths can lead to higher dipole moments, provided there is a charge separation.

 

   Example: 

   - The dipole moment of hydrogen fluoride (HF) is smaller than that of hydrogen iodide (HI), despite fluorine being more electronegative, because the bond length in HF is shorter than in HI.

 

3. Molecular Geometry:

   - The overall dipole moment of a molecule depends not only on individual bond dipoles but also on the molecular geometry. Even if a molecule contains polar bonds, the dipole moments may cancel out if the geometry is symmetrical.

 

   Example: 

   - Carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\)) has polar C=O bonds, but the linear geometry of the molecule causes the bond dipoles to cancel out, resulting in a non-polar molecule with zero dipole moment.

Calculation of Dipole Moment

 

The dipole moment is calculated using the product of the magnitude of the partial charges and the distance between them. However, in most cases, dipole moments are experimentally measured rather than calculated directly because the partial charges and bond lengths can vary with molecular structure.

 

Example: 

- HCl: The dipole moment of hydrogen chloride is 1.03 D. The bond length is about 127.4 pm, and the partial charges on H and Cl atoms are due to the difference in electronegativity between them.

 

 

 

 Dipole Moments in Different Molecular Geometries

 

1. Linear Geometry:

   - In linear molecules, if the dipole moments of individual bonds are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction, they cancel each other out, leading to a net dipole moment of zero.

  

   Example: 

   - Carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)): Although each C=O bond is polar, the linear structure causes the dipoles to cancel, resulting in a non-polar molecule with a dipole moment of 0 D.

 

2. Bent Geometry:

   - In bent molecules, the bond dipoles do not cancel due to the angular arrangement, resulting in a net dipole moment.

 

   Example: 

   - Water (\(H_2O\)): The bent geometry causes the O-H bond dipoles to add up, leading to a net dipole moment of 1.85 D. This gives water its polar nature.

 

3. Trigonal Pyramidal Geometry:

   - Molecules with trigonal pyramidal geometry (such as ammonia) have a non-zero dipole moment because the bond dipoles do not cancel out.

  

   Example: 

   - Ammonia (\(NH_3\)): The dipole moment of ammonia is 1.47 D due to the lone pair of electrons on nitrogen, which causes the molecule to be polar.

 

4. Tetrahedral Geometry:

   - In tetrahedral molecules, the presence of equal and symmetrical bonds may lead to the cancellation of dipoles.

 

   Example: 

   - Methane (\(CH_4\)): Despite having polar C-H bonds, the symmetrical tetrahedral geometry results in a non-polar molecule with a dipole moment of 0 D.

 

5. Square Planar Geometry:

   - In square planar molecules, dipole moments may cancel if the bond dipoles are arranged symmetrically.

 

   Example: 

   - Xenon tetrafluoride (\(XeF_4\)): Although \(XeF_4\) has polar Xe-F bonds, the dipoles cancel out due to its symmetrical square planar geometry, resulting in a net dipole moment of 0 D.

Dipole Moment in Polyatomic Molecules

 

In polyatomic molecules, the overall dipole moment depends on both the individual bond dipoles and the molecular geometry. Even if some bonds are polar, the molecular geometry can lead to a cancellation of dipole moments, making the molecule non-polar.

 

Example: 

- Chloroform (CHCl\(_3\)): Chloroform has polar C-H and C-Cl bonds. Due to the molecular geometry, the bond dipoles do not cancel, resulting in a net dipole moment of 1.15 D.

 

- Carbon Tetrachloride (CCl\(_4\)): In contrast, carbon tetrachloride has four C-Cl bonds arranged symmetrically in a tetrahedral structure. The bond dipoles cancel out, making CCl\(_4\) a non-polar molecule with a dipole moment of 0 D.

Applications of Dipole Moment

 

1. Determining Molecular Polarity:

   - Dipole moment measurements help in determining whether a molecule is polar or non-polar. Polar molecules (with a net dipole moment) interact with electric fields and align themselves accordingly.

 

   Example: 

   - Water’s dipole moment makes it polar, which explains its excellent solvent properties for ionic compounds and other polar substances.

 

2. Predicting Solubility:

   - Dipole moment helps predict solubility. Polar molecules (with a dipole moment) dissolve well in polar solvents (like water), while non-polar molecules dissolve in non-polar solvents.

 

   Example: 

   - Methanol (\(CH_3OH\)), with a dipole moment of 1.70 D, is polar and dissolves well in water. Non-polar molecules like hexane (\(C_6H_{14}\)), with no dipole moment, dissolve in non-polar solvents.

 

3. Determining Molecular Structure:

   - Dipole moment data can be used to infer molecular geometry. Molecules with higher dipole moments are typically asymmetric, while molecules with zero dipole moments tend to have symmetrical geometries.

 

   Example: 

   - The dipole moment of ammonia (\(NH_3\)) confirms its trigonal pyramidal shape, whereas the zero dipole moment of carbon tetrachloride (\(CCl_4\)) confirms its symmetrical tetrahedral shape.

 

4. Physical Properties:

   - Dipole moments affect physical properties like boiling point, melting point, and solubility. Polar molecules generally have higher boiling and melting points than non-polar molecules due to stronger intermolecular forces (such as dipole-dipole interactions).

 

   Example: 

   - The dipole moment of water leads to strong hydrogen bonding, giving it a high boiling point compared to other molecules of similar size, such as methane.

Conclusion

 

Dipole moment is a fundamental concept for understanding molecular polarity, geometry, and physical properties. It arises from the unequal sharing of electrons in polar bonds and is influenced by both bond dipoles and molecular geometry. Knowing the dipole moment helps predict the behavior of molecules in electric fields, their solubility, and their intermolecular interactions.

Questions

Q 1. If a molecule \(\mathrm{MX}_{3}\) has zero dipole moment, the sigma bonding orbitals used by \(\mathrm{M}\) (atomic number \(<21\) ) are;

(A) Pure \(p\);

(B) sp hybridised;

(C) \(\mathrm{sp}^{2}\) hybridised;

(D) \(\mathrm{sp}^{3}\) hybridised;

Bond Angle


 Bond Angle

 

 Definition of Bond Angle

 

The bond angle is the angle formed between two adjacent bonds at an atom in a molecule. It is a crucial factor that determines the shape and geometry of a molecule, influencing its physical and chemical properties. Bond angles are defined by the positions of atoms around a central atom and are measured in degrees.

 

Bond angles are governed by the VSEPR theory (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion theory), which explains how electron pairs around a central atom repel each other to minimize repulsion and adopt a specific geometry.

Factors Affecting Bond Angle

 

1. Lone Pair Repulsion:

   - Lone pairs of electrons occupy more space around the central atom than bonding pairs, which increases their repulsion. Lone pair-bond pair repulsion is stronger than bond pair-bond pair repulsion, leading to a reduction in bond angles from their ideal values.

 

   Example: 

   - In ammonia (\(NH_3\)), the ideal bond angle for a tetrahedral molecule is 109.5°, but due to the lone pair on nitrogen, the bond angle is compressed to 107°.

   - In water (\(H_2O\)), which has two lone pairs, the bond angle is further reduced to 104.5°.

 

2. Hybridization:

   - The hybridization of the central atom affects bond angles. sp, sp\(^2\), and sp\(^3\) hybridization create characteristic bond angles due to the geometry of the hybrid orbitals.

  

   - sp Hybridization: Linear geometry with bond angles of 180°.

   - sp\(^2\) Hybridization: Trigonal planar geometry with bond angles of 120°.

   - sp\(^3\) Hybridization: Tetrahedral geometry with bond angles of 109.5°.

 

   Example: 

   - In methane (\(CH_4\)), the carbon atom is sp\(^3\)-hybridized, leading to a bond angle of 109.5°. 

   - In ethene (\(C_2H_4\)), the carbon atoms are sp\(^2\)-hybridized, and the bond angle is 120°.

 

3. Electronegativity:

   - Differences in electronegativity between the central atom and the surrounding atoms can affect bond angles. More electronegative atoms tend to pull bonding electrons closer, resulting in stronger repulsion between adjacent bonds and potentially increasing bond angles.

 

   Example: 

   - In \(NF_3\), the bond angle is slightly less than in \(NH_3\) because fluorine is more electronegative than hydrogen, pulling bonding electrons closer and slightly reducing lone pair repulsion on nitrogen.

 

4. Multiple Bonds:

   - Double and triple bonds occupy more space than single bonds because of the additional electron density between the bonded atoms. This can affect bond angles by pushing adjacent bonds further apart, increasing the bond angles around the central atom.

 

   Example: 

   - In formaldehyde (\(H_2CO\)), the C=O bond is a double bond, which results in a bond angle of 121.9°, slightly larger than the ideal 120° of a perfect trigonal planar structure.

 

Bond Angles in Different Molecular Geometries

 

1. Linear Geometry:

   - A linear molecular shape occurs when the central atom forms two bonds and has no lone pairs. The bond angle is 180°, as the electron pairs are positioned as far apart as possible to minimize repulsion.

  

   Example: 

   - Carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)) has a linear geometry with bond angles of 180° because of the double bonds between carbon and oxygen.

 

2. Trigonal Planar Geometry:

   - In a trigonal planar geometry, the central atom forms three bonds and has no lone pairs. The ideal bond angle is 120°.

  

   Example: 

   - In boron trifluoride (\(BF_3\)), the boron atom forms three bonds with fluorine, resulting in a bond angle of 120°.

 

3. Tetrahedral Geometry:

   - A tetrahedral shape arises when the central atom forms four bonds and has no lone pairs. The bond angle in a perfect tetrahedron is 109.5°.

  

   Example: 

   - In methane (\(CH_4\)), the bond angle is 109.5° because of the symmetrical distribution of the hydrogen atoms around the central carbon atom.

 

4. Trigonal Pyramidal Geometry:

   - A trigonal pyramidal shape occurs when the central atom has one lone pair and three bonding pairs. The lone pair repulsion compresses the bond angles slightly below the tetrahedral angle.

  

   Example: 

   - In ammonia (\(NH_3\)), the nitrogen atom has one lone pair and three N-H bonds, resulting in a bond angle of 107°.

 

5. Bent (V-Shaped) Geometry:

   - A bent geometry arises when the central atom has two bonding pairs and one or two lone pairs. The lone pairs cause significant repulsion, reducing the bond angles below the ideal tetrahedral angle.

  

   Example: 

   - In water (\(H_2O\)), the two lone pairs on oxygen compress the bond angle to 104.5°, making it less than the ideal 109.5° of a tetrahedral arrangement.

 

6. Trigonal Bipyramidal Geometry:

   - A trigonal bipyramidal shape occurs when the central atom forms five bonds. There are two bond angles: 90° for axial bonds and 120° for equatorial bonds.

  

   Example: 

   - In phosphorus pentachloride (\(PCl_5\)), the bond angles are 90° and 120°, as expected from the trigonal bipyramidal arrangement of the chlorine atoms around phosphorus.

 

7. Octahedral Geometry:

   - In an octahedral arrangement, the central atom forms six bonds, and the bond angles are 90°.

  

   Example: 

   - In sulfur hexafluoride (\(SF_6\)), the bond angles are 90° due to the symmetrical arrangement of fluorine atoms around the sulfur atom.

 

Examples of Bond Angle Deviations

 

1. Ammonia (\(NH_3\)):

   - Ideal Tetrahedral Angle: 109.5°

   - Actual Bond Angle: 107°

   - Explanation: The lone pair on nitrogen exerts greater repulsion on the bonding pairs, compressing the bond angle slightly.

 

2. Water (\(H_2O\)):

   - Ideal Tetrahedral Angle: 109.5°

   - Actual Bond Angle: 104.5°

   - Explanation: The two lone pairs on oxygen exert significant repulsion, reducing the bond angle even more.

 

3. Methane (\(CH_4\)):

   - Bond Angle: 109.5°

   - Explanation: The symmetrical tetrahedral shape results in the ideal bond angle of 109.5°, with no lone pair-bond pair repulsion.

 

4. Sulfur Dioxide (\(SO_2\)):

   - Ideal Trigonal Planar Angle: 120°

   - Actual Bond Angle: 119°

   - Explanation: The lone pair on sulfur slightly reduces the bond angle, giving the molecule a bent shape.

Importance of Bond Angles in Molecular Properties

 

1. Polarity:

   - Bond angles can influence the overall polarity of a molecule. If the bond angles lead to an asymmetric distribution of charges, the molecule will have a dipole moment and be polar.

  

   Example: 

   - Water’s bent shape (104.5° bond angle) leads to a polar molecule with a significant dipole moment.

 

2. Reactivity:

   - Molecules with smaller bond angles may have higher repulsion between bonding pairs, leading to greater strain and increased reactivity.

  

   Example: 

   - In small cyclic compounds like cyclopropane, the bond angles are highly compressed, leading to bond strain and higher reactivity.

 

3. Intermolecular Forces:

   - The bond angles in a molecule affect how it interacts with other molecules. Polar molecules with asymmetrical bond angles tend to form stronger dipole-dipole interactions, which affect properties like boiling point and solubility.

Conclusion

Bond angle is a fundamental concept that helps predict molecular geometry, polarity, and reactivity. It is determined by factors like lone pair repulsion, hybridization, and electronegativity. The deviations from ideal bond angles provide insight into the shape and behavior of molecules, making bond angles crucial for understanding molecular structures and their chemical properties.

Questions

Q 1. Bond angles of \(\mathrm{NH}_{3}, \mathrm{PH}_{3}, \mathrm{AsH}_{3}\) and \(\mathrm{SbH}_{3}\) are in the order;

(A) \(\mathrm{PH}_{3}>\mathrm{AsH}_{3}>\mathrm{SbH}_{3}>\mathrm{NH}_{3}\);

(B) \(\mathrm{SbH}_{3}>\mathrm{AsH}_{3}>\mathrm{PH}_{3}>\mathrm{NH}_{3}\);

(C) \(\mathrm{SbH}_{3}>\mathrm{AsH}_{3}>\mathrm{NH}_{3}>\mathrm{PH}_{3}\);

(D) \(\mathrm{NH}_{3}>\mathrm{PH}_{3}>\mathrm{AsH}_{3}>\mathrm{SbH}_{3}\);

Electronegativity and Polarity


 Electronegativity and Polarity

 

 Electronegativity

 

Electronegativity is the ability of an atom to attract shared electrons toward itself in a chemical bond. It is a dimensionless quantity and is commonly measured using the Pauling scale, where fluorine has the highest electronegativity of 3.98. Electronegativity plays a critical role in determining the nature of the bond between atoms and the overall polarity of a molecule.

 

Electronegativity differences between atoms influence whether a bond is:

- Non-polar covalent: Electrons are shared equally between atoms with similar or identical electronegativities.

- Polar covalent: Electrons are shared unequally between atoms with different electronegativities.

- Ionic: Electrons are transferred from one atom to another when there is a large difference in electronegativity.

Polarity

 

Polarity in a bond or molecule arises when there is an uneven distribution of electron density due to differences in electronegativity between atoms. Polarity gives rise to partial positive and negative charges on different atoms within a molecule, which affects the molecule’s behavior in chemical reactions, solubility, and interactions with other molecules.

 

- Polar Molecule: A molecule with a net dipole moment due to an uneven charge distribution.

- Non-Polar Molecule: A molecule where the electron distribution is balanced, leading to no net dipole moment.

Relationship Between Electronegativity and Bond Polarity

 

The difference in electronegativity between two atoms in a bond determines the bond's polarity:

 

1. Non-Polar Covalent Bond:

   - In a non-polar covalent bond, the electronegativity difference between two bonded atoms is zero or very small (less than 0.5). As a result, the shared electrons are equally distributed between the atoms, and there is no partial charge on either atom.

  

   Example: 

   - The bond between two hydrogen atoms in \(H_2\) is non-polar because both hydrogen atoms have the same electronegativity (2.1). Electrons are shared equally, resulting in no net dipole moment.

 

2. Polar Covalent Bond:

   - A polar covalent bond arises when the electronegativity difference between two atoms is moderate (between 0.5 and 1.7). The more electronegative atom attracts the bonding electrons more strongly, creating a partial negative charge (\(\delta^-\)) on it, while the less electronegative atom acquires a partial positive charge (\(\delta^+\)).

  

   Example: 

   - The bond between hydrogen and chlorine in \(HCl\) is polar covalent. Chlorine, being more electronegative (3.16), attracts the shared electrons more strongly, resulting in a dipole moment with partial negative charge on chlorine and partial positive charge on hydrogen.

 

3. Ionic Bond:

   - If the electronegativity difference between two atoms is large (greater than 1.7), the more electronegative atom will pull the electron away from the less electronegative atom, resulting in the formation of ions. One atom becomes a cation (positively charged) and the other becomes an anion (negatively charged), and the bond between them is ionic.

  

   Example: 

   - Sodium chloride (\(NaCl\)) forms an ionic bond because the electronegativity difference between sodium (0.93) and chlorine (3.16) is large. Sodium loses an electron to chlorine, forming \(Na^+\) and \(Cl^-\) ions.

Polarity in Molecules

 

The overall polarity of a molecule depends on two factors:

1. Bond Polarity: The polarity of individual bonds in the molecule due to differences in electronegativity.

2. Molecular Geometry: The spatial arrangement of the atoms and bonds in the molecule. Even if a molecule contains polar bonds, it may be non-polar if the bond dipoles cancel each other out due to the symmetry of the molecule.

 

 

 

 Polarity and Molecular Geometry

 

1. Non-Polar Molecules:

   - Non-polar molecules have no net dipole moment because their bond dipoles cancel each other out due to symmetrical geometry. This occurs when the dipoles are equal in magnitude but opposite in direction.

  

   Example: 

   - Carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\)): Despite having two polar C=O bonds, CO\(_2\) is a non-polar molecule because the linear geometry causes the dipoles to cancel out, resulting in no net dipole moment.

  

   - Methane (CH\(_4\)): Methane has polar C-H bonds, but the symmetrical tetrahedral geometry results in a non-polar molecule because the bond dipoles cancel each other out.

 

2. Polar Molecules:

   - Polar molecules have a net dipole moment because the bond dipoles do not cancel out. This occurs in molecules with an asymmetrical arrangement of polar bonds, where there is an uneven distribution of charge.

  

   Example: 

   - Water (H\(_2\)O): Water has polar O-H bonds, and its bent molecular shape causes the dipoles to add up, resulting in a net dipole moment of 1.85 D. This makes water a polar molecule, which explains its strong hydrogen bonding and excellent solvent properties for ionic and polar compounds.

  

   - Ammonia (NH\(_3\)): Ammonia has a trigonal pyramidal structure with polar N-H bonds. The lone pair on nitrogen creates an asymmetry in electron distribution, resulting in a net dipole moment of 1.47 D, making ammonia a polar molecule.

 

3. Polar and Non-Polar Bonds in the Same Molecule:

   - Some molecules have both polar and non-polar bonds, and their overall polarity depends on the arrangement of these bonds and the molecule's geometry.

  

   Example: 

   - Chloroform (CHCl\(_3\)): Chloroform has polar C-Cl bonds and a non-polar C-H bond. The molecular geometry is tetrahedral, and the bond dipoles do not cancel out, resulting in a net dipole moment and a polar molecule.

Electronegativity and Polarity in Chemical Reactions

 

1. Reactivity:

   - The polarity of a molecule affects its reactivity. Polar molecules tend to engage in dipole-dipole interactions, hydrogen bonding, or ionic interactions, making them more reactive in certain environments.

  

   Example: 

   - Water’s polarity allows it to dissolve ionic substances like \(NaCl\), as well as polar covalent molecules through dipole-dipole interactions.

 

2. Intermolecular Forces:

   - The dipole moment in polar molecules gives rise to intermolecular forces, such as dipole-dipole interactions and hydrogen bonding, which significantly affect the physical properties of substances (like boiling and melting points).

  

   Example: 

   - Water has a high boiling point due to the strong hydrogen bonds between water molecules, a result of its polarity.

 

3. Solubility:

   - "Like dissolves like": Polar molecules dissolve well in polar solvents (e.g., water), while non-polar molecules dissolve in non-polar solvents (e.g., hexane). The polarity of a molecule helps predict its solubility behavior.

  

   Example: 

   - Methanol (\(CH_3OH\)) is soluble in water because both are polar molecules that can form hydrogen bonds. On the other hand, hexane (\(C_6H_{14}\)) is non-polar and dissolves well in non-polar solvents like benzene.

Conclusion

 

Electronegativity and polarity are intrinsically connected concepts that help explain the behavior of molecules in bonding, reactivity, solubility, and molecular interactions. The electronegativity difference between atoms determines bond polarity, and the overall molecular geometry dictates whether the molecule has a net dipole moment, affecting its polarity.

Questions

Q 1. Which of the following is the correct prediction about observed \(\mathrm{B}-\mathrm{F}\) bond length in \(\mathrm{BF}_{3}\) molecule?;

(A) \(\mathrm{B}-\mathrm{F}\) bond length in \(\mathrm{BF}_{3}\) is found to be less than theoretical value because the electronegativity values of \(\mathrm{B}(2.04)\) and 4.0) suggest the bond length to be ionic and hence, the attraction between oppositely charged ions must decrease the nd length.;

(B) \(\mathrm{BF}_{3}\) and \(\left[\mathrm{BF}_{4}\right]^{-}\)have equal \(\mathrm{B}-\mathrm{F}\) bond length.;

(C) The decrease in the \(\mathrm{B}-\mathrm{F}\) bond length in \(\mathrm{BF}_{3}\) is due to delocalised \(\mathrm{p} \pi-\mathrm{p} \pi\) bonding between vacant \(2 \mathrm{p}\) orbital of \(\mathrm{B}\) filled \(2 \mathrm{p}\) orbital of \(\mathrm{F}\);

(D) The correct \(\mathrm{B}-\mathrm{X}\) bond length order is;

Bond Order and Stability


 Bond Order and Stability

 

 Bond Order

 

Bond order refers to the number of chemical bonds between a pair of atoms in a molecule. It is a measure of the strength and stability of a bond. Bond order is calculated based on the number of bonding electron pairs and anti-bonding electron pairs in a molecule. The higher the bond order, the stronger and more stable the bond.

 

For diatomic molecules and simple polyatomic molecules, bond order can be understood as follows:

- Bond Order = 1: Single bond (e.g., H-H in \(H_2\)).

- Bond Order = 2: Double bond (e.g., O=O in \(O_2\)).

- Bond Order = 3: Triple bond (e.g., N≡N in \(N_2\)).

 

For molecules involving resonance, bond order is often a fractional value, representing an average of multiple resonance structures.

 

Formula for Bond Order in Molecular Orbital Theory (MO Theory):

\[

\text{Bond Order} = \frac{1}{2} \times \left( \text{Number of Bonding Electrons} - \text{Number of Anti-Bonding Electrons} \right)

\]

 

 

 

 Bond Order and Molecular Stability

 

The bond order gives insight into the stability of a molecule:

- Higher Bond Order: Greater stability, stronger bond, shorter bond length, and higher bond dissociation energy.

- Lower Bond Order: Weaker bond, less stable molecule, longer bond length, and lower bond dissociation energy.

 

 

 

 Examples of Bond Order in Diatomic Molecules

 

1. Hydrogen (H\(_2\)):

   - Bond Order: 1 (single bond).

   - Stability: Hydrogen has a stable bond because of the overlap of \(1s\) orbitals, forming a strong single bond.

  

2. Oxygen (O\(_2\)):

   - Bond Order: 2 (double bond).

   - Stability: The bond order of 2 indicates a strong double bond between the oxygen atoms. However, due to the presence of unpaired electrons in the molecular orbitals, \(O_2\) is paramagnetic and less stable compared to nitrogen.

  

3. Nitrogen (N\(_2\)):

   - Bond Order: 3 (triple bond).

   - Stability: Nitrogen has a bond order of 3, indicating a very stable triple bond. The bond dissociation energy of nitrogen is very high, making \(N_2\) one of the most stable diatomic molecules.

 

4. Fluorine (F\(_2\)):

   - Bond Order: 1 (single bond).

   - Stability: Fluorine has a single bond, but due to the repulsion between lone pairs on the fluorine atoms, the bond is relatively weak compared to other single bonds. As a result, \(F_2\) is less stable than molecules like \(N_2\).

 

 

 

 Bond Order in Resonance Structures

 

For molecules that exhibit resonance, the bond order is an average of the bond orders of the individual resonance structures. Resonance delocalizes electrons over multiple atoms, leading to fractional bond orders, which influence the molecule's stability.

 

Example: Benzene (C\(_6\)H\(_6\)):

- Benzene has alternating single and double bonds between carbon atoms. However, due to resonance, the actual bond order is 1.5 for each C-C bond.

- The delocalized \(\pi\)-electrons in benzene result in a stable structure where all C-C bonds are of equal length and strength, contributing to the stability of the molecule.

 

Example: Carbonate Ion (CO\(_3^{2-}\)):

- The carbonate ion has three resonance structures, each with one C=O double bond and two C-O single bonds. The bond order is the average:

\[

\text{Bond Order} = \frac{1 + 1 + 1}{3} = 1.33

\]

- This fractional bond order indicates that all C-O bonds are equivalent and intermediate between a single and double bond, contributing to the ion’s stability.

 

 

 

 Bond Order and Bond Length

 

Bond order is inversely related to bond length. As bond order increases, bond length decreases because the bonding electrons pull the atoms closer together. The shorter the bond length, the stronger the bond.

 

- Single Bond (Bond Order = 1): Longest bond length, weakest bond.

- Double Bond (Bond Order = 2): Shorter bond length, stronger bond.

- Triple Bond (Bond Order = 3): Shortest bond length, strongest bond.

 

Example:

- In nitrogen (\(N_2\)), the triple bond (bond order = 3) leads to a very short bond length and a highly stable molecule.

- In oxygen (\(O_2\)), the double bond (bond order = 2) results in a longer bond length compared to \(N_2\) but still strong.

- In hydrogen (\(H_2\)), the single bond (bond order = 1) is the weakest and longest of these examples.

 

 

 

 Bond Order and Bond Dissociation Energy

 

Bond dissociation energy is the energy required to break a bond. Bond order is directly proportional to bond dissociation energy, meaning higher bond orders correspond to stronger bonds and higher bond dissociation energies.

 

- Triple Bonds (Bond Order = 3): Highest bond dissociation energy due to strong overlap of atomic orbitals.

- Double Bonds (Bond Order = 2): Intermediate bond dissociation energy.

- Single Bonds (Bond Order = 1): Lowest bond dissociation energy due to weaker interaction between atoms.

 

Example:

- Nitrogen (N\(_2\)): The bond dissociation energy of nitrogen is extremely high (946 kJ/mol) due to its triple bond, making \(N_2\) a very stable molecule.

- Oxygen (O\(_2\)): The bond dissociation energy of oxygen is lower than nitrogen because of the double bond (bond order = 2), but it is still relatively strong.

- Fluorine (F\(_2\)): Fluorine has a single bond (bond order = 1) and a relatively low bond dissociation energy compared to nitrogen and oxygen, making it less stable.

 

 

 

 Molecular Stability and Bond Order in Polyatomic Molecules

 

In polyatomic molecules, bond order is a good indicator of the stability of individual bonds within the molecule. Resonance plays a significant role in stabilizing molecules by delocalizing electrons and averaging bond orders.

 

Example: Ozone (O\(_3\)):

- Ozone exhibits resonance between its two O-O bonds, resulting in an average bond order of 1.5. This fractional bond order contributes to the stability of ozone despite its reactive nature.

 

Example: Sulfate Ion (SO\(_4^{2-}\)):

- The sulfate ion has four equivalent S-O bonds due to resonance, with each bond having a bond order of 1.5. This fractional bond order increases the stability of the sulfate ion by distributing the negative charge evenly across the four oxygen atoms.

 

 

 

 Bond Order and Stability in Molecular Orbital Theory

 

In molecular orbital theory, bond order is calculated by subtracting the number of electrons in anti-bonding molecular orbitals from the number of electrons in bonding molecular orbitals. A positive bond order indicates a stable molecule, while a bond order of zero suggests that the molecule is unstable and unlikely to exist.

 

- Stable Molecules: A positive bond order implies that there are more bonding electrons than anti-bonding electrons, leading to a stable molecule.

- Unstable Molecules: A bond order of zero or less means that the molecule has equal or more anti-bonding electrons than bonding electrons, making the molecule unstable.

 

Example:

- Helium Dimer (He\(_2\)): The bond order for \(He_2\) is zero because there are equal numbers of bonding and anti-bonding electrons. Therefore, \(He_2\) is not a stable molecule.

 

- Oxygen Molecule (O\(_2\)): The bond order of \(O_2\) is 2, indicating a stable molecule with a double bond between the oxygen atoms.

 

 

 

 Conclusion

 

Bond order is a fundamental concept that determines the strength, length, and stability of a bond. A higher bond order corresponds to shorter bond lengths, higher bond dissociation energies, and greater molecular stability. Understanding bond order is crucial for predicting the behavior of molecules, their reactivity, and their properties in chemical reactions.

Questions

Q 1. \(\mathrm{B}-\mathrm{F}>\mathrm{B}-\mathrm{Cl}>\mathrm{B}-\mathrm{Br}>\mathrm{B}-\mathrm{I}\)\nThe diamagnetic species is;

(A) \(\mathrm{NO}\);

(B) \(\mathrm{NO}_{2}\);

(C) \(\mathrm{O}_{2}\);

(D) \(\mathrm{CO}_{2}\);

Hybridization


 Hybridization

 

 Definition of Hybridization

 

Hybridization is the concept of mixing atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals that are equivalent in energy and are oriented in a specific geometry to optimize bonding in molecules. This concept explains the shape and bonding of molecules where atomic orbitals alone cannot account for observed molecular geometries.

 

The new hybrid orbitals formed are used for bonding and lone pairs, and the type of hybridization determines the molecular geometry, bond angles, and overall molecular structure. Hybridization helps explain how atoms like carbon can form four equivalent bonds (as in methane, \(CH_4\)) when their atomic orbitals are of different energy levels.

 

 

 

 Types of Hybridization and Geometry

 

1. sp Hybridization:

   - In sp hybridization, one s-orbital and one p-orbital mix to form two hybrid orbitals. These orbitals are linearly arranged with a bond angle of 180°.

   - Geometry: Linear

  

   Example: 

   - In beryllium chloride (\(BeCl_2\)), the beryllium atom undergoes sp hybridization, resulting in a linear structure with bond angles of 180° between the two Be-Cl bonds.

 

2. sp\(^2\) Hybridization:

   - In sp\(^2\) hybridization, one s-orbital and two p-orbitals mix to form three hybrid orbitals. These orbitals are arranged in a trigonal planar geometry with bond angles of 120°.

   - Geometry: Trigonal Planar

  

   Example: 

   - In boron trifluoride (\(BF_3\)), the boron atom undergoes sp\(^2\) hybridization, forming a planar triangular structure with bond angles of 120°.

 

3. sp\(^3\) Hybridization:

   - In sp\(^3\) hybridization, one s-orbital and three p-orbitals mix to form four equivalent hybrid orbitals. These orbitals are arranged in a tetrahedral geometry with bond angles of 109.5°.

   - Geometry: Tetrahedral

  

   Example: 

   - In methane (\(CH_4\)), the carbon atom undergoes sp\(^3\) hybridization, forming four identical C-H bonds arranged in a tetrahedral structure with bond angles of 109.5°.

 

4. sp\(^3\)d Hybridization:

   - In sp\(^3\)d hybridization, one s-orbital, three p-orbitals, and one d-orbital mix to form five hybrid orbitals. These orbitals are arranged in a trigonal bipyramidal geometry with bond angles of 90° and 120°.

   - Geometry: Trigonal Bipyramidal

  

   Example: 

   - In phosphorus pentachloride (\(PCl_5\)), the phosphorus atom undergoes sp\(^3\)d hybridization, resulting in a trigonal bipyramidal structure with bond angles of 90° between axial bonds and 120° between equatorial bonds.

 

5. sp\(^3\)d\(^2\) Hybridization:

   - In sp\(^3\)d\(^2\) hybridization, one s-orbital, three p-orbitals, and two d-orbitals mix to form six hybrid orbitals. These orbitals are arranged in an octahedral geometry with bond angles of 90°.

   - Geometry: Octahedral

  

   Example: 

   - In sulfur hexafluoride (\(SF_6\)), the sulfur atom undergoes sp\(^3\)d\(^2\) hybridization, forming an octahedral structure with bond angles of 90° between all the S-F bonds.

 

 

 

 Hybridization in Common Molecules

 

1. Methane (CH\(_4\)):

   - Hybridization: sp\(^3\)

   - Geometry: Tetrahedral

   - Bond Angle: 109.5°

   - The carbon atom in methane is sp\(^3\)-hybridized, forming four equivalent C-H bonds, arranged tetrahedrally with bond angles of 109.5°. This explains the symmetry of the methane molecule.

 

2. Ethene (C\(_2\)H\(_4\)):

   - Hybridization: sp\(^2\)

   - Geometry: Trigonal Planar

   - Bond Angle: 120°

   - In ethene, each carbon atom is sp\(^2\)-hybridized, forming a planar structure with a double bond between the carbons and 120° bond angles. The remaining p-orbital on each carbon forms the \(\pi\)-bond in the C=C double bond.

 

3. Acetylene (C\(_2\)H\(_2\)):

   - Hybridization: sp

   - Geometry: Linear

   - Bond Angle: 180°

   - In acetylene, each carbon atom is sp-hybridized, forming a linear structure with 180° bond angles. The remaining two p-orbitals on each carbon overlap to form two \(\pi\)-bonds, creating a triple bond between the two carbon atoms.

 

4. Ammonia (NH\(_3\)):

   - Hybridization: sp\(^3\)

   - Geometry: Trigonal Pyramidal

   - Bond Angle: 107°

   - The nitrogen atom in ammonia undergoes sp\(^3\) hybridization, but the presence of a lone pair causes the bond angle to be reduced from 109.5° to 107°, resulting in a trigonal pyramidal geometry.

 

5. Water (H\(_2\)O\)):

   - Hybridization: sp\(^3\)

   - Geometry: Bent

   - Bond Angle: 104.5°

   - The oxygen atom in water undergoes sp\(^3\) hybridization, but two lone pairs reduce the bond angle to 104.5°, resulting in a bent molecular shape.

 

 

 

 Significance of Hybridization

 

1. Explaining Molecular Geometry:

   - Hybridization is critical for explaining the geometries of molecules, especially when atomic orbitals cannot directly account for the observed bond angles and shapes. For example, the tetrahedral geometry of methane is explained by sp\(^3\) hybridization, where carbon forms four equivalent bonds.

 

2. Bond Strength and Length:

   - Hybridization affects the bond strength and bond length in a molecule. Orbitals that have more s-character (such as sp orbitals) result in shorter, stronger bonds, while orbitals with more p-character (such as sp\(^3\)) lead to longer, weaker bonds.

 

   Example: 

   - In acetylene (C\(_2\)H\(_2\)), the C-C bond formed by sp hybrid orbitals is shorter and stronger compared to the C-C bond in ethene (C\(_2\)H\(_4\)), which is formed by sp\(^2\) hybrid orbitals.

 

3. Bond Angles and Molecular Shape:

   - The type of hybridization directly determines the bond angles in a molecule. For example, sp\(^2\) hybridization leads to 120° bond angles in a trigonal planar structure, while sp hybridization results in 180° bond angles in a linear molecule.

 

4. Molecular Stability:

   - Hybridization contributes to the stability of a molecule by optimizing the arrangement of electrons in bonds and lone pairs. Hybrid orbitals minimize electron repulsion and ensure that the bonding electrons are distributed as symmetrically as possible around the central atom.

 

5. Orbital Overlap:

   - Hybridization allows for efficient overlap of orbitals, maximizing the strength of covalent bonds. The overlap between hybrid orbitals and other atomic orbitals ensures strong \(\sigma\)-bonds in molecules.

Examples of Hybridization in Resonance

 

In resonance structures, the hybridization of atoms may appear to change in different resonance forms. However, the actual hybridization is determined by the average structure of the resonance hybrid.

Example: Benzene (C\(_6\)H\(_6\)):

- In benzene, each carbon atom is sp\(^2\)-hybridized, forming a planar structure with 120° bond angles. The delocalization of \(\pi\)-electrons across the ring explains the equal bond lengths between carbon atoms, despite the alternating single and double bonds in resonance structures.

 Conclusion

Hybridization is a vital concept for understanding molecular geometry, bond angles, and bond strength. By combining atomic orbitals into hybrid orbitals, hybridization allows for the formation of molecules with specific geometries, such as linear, trigonal planar, tetrahedral, trigonal bipyramidal, and octahedral.

Questions

Q 1. Q9. The difference between bond orders of \(\mathrm{CO}\) and \(\mathrm{NO}^{\oplus}\) is \(\frac{\mathrm{x}}{2}\) where \(\mathrm{x}=\)\n(Round off to the Nearest Integer);

(A)2;

(B)0;

(C)3;

(D)1;

Molecular Shape


 Molecular Shape

 

 Introduction to Molecular Shape

 

Molecular shape refers to the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms around a central atom in a molecule. The shape of a molecule is crucial because it determines many physical and chemical properties, including reactivity, polarity, phase of matter, and biological activity. The shape of a molecule is governed by the repulsions between the valence electron pairs around the central atom, which is explained by the VSEPR theory (Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion theory).

 

According to VSEPR theory, electron pairs (both bonding and non-bonding) repel each other and arrange themselves to minimize this repulsion, leading to a specific molecular shape.

 

 

 

 Factors Determining Molecular Shape

 

1. Electron Pairs:

   - The arrangement of bonding pairs and lone pairs around the central atom determines the molecular shape. Lone pairs occupy more space and exert more repulsion than bonding pairs, leading to distortions in the ideal geometry.

 

2. Hybridization:

   - The type of hybridization of the central atom also dictates the shape of the molecule. For example, sp hybridization leads to a linear shape, while sp\(^3\) hybridization results in a tetrahedral shape.

 

3. Bond Angles:

   - The bond angles between atoms determine how the atoms are arranged in space. The presence of lone pairs can reduce bond angles from their ideal values.

 

 

 

 Molecular Shapes Based on VSEPR Theory

 

1. Linear Shape:

   - Geometry: Linear

   - Bond Angle: 180°

   - Hybridization: sp

   - In a linear molecule, the central atom forms two bonds and has no lone pairs, and the atoms are arranged in a straight line.

  

   Example: 

   - Carbon Dioxide (CO\(_2\)): CO\(_2\) has a linear shape with bond angles of 180° because the carbon atom forms double bonds with each oxygen atom, and there are no lone pairs on the central carbon.

 

2. Trigonal Planar Shape:

   - Geometry: Trigonal Planar

   - Bond Angle: 120°

   - Hybridization: sp\(^2\)

   - In a trigonal planar molecule, the central atom forms three bonds and has no lone pairs. The atoms are arranged in a flat triangular shape.

  

   Example: 

   - Boron Trifluoride (BF\(_3\)): BF\(_3\) has a trigonal planar shape with 120° bond angles because the boron atom forms three bonds with fluorine atoms and has no lone pairs.

 

3. Tetrahedral Shape:

   - Geometry: Tetrahedral

   - Bond Angle: 109.5°

   - Hybridization: sp\(^3\)

   - In a tetrahedral molecule, the central atom forms four bonds and has no lone pairs. The atoms are arranged in a three-dimensional tetrahedron, with bond angles of 109.5°.

  

   Example: 

   - Methane (CH\(_4\)): The carbon atom in methane forms four bonds with hydrogen atoms, resulting in a tetrahedral structure with bond angles of 109.5°.

 

4. Trigonal Pyramidal Shape:

   - Geometry: Trigonal Pyramidal

   - Bond Angle: 107°

   - Hybridization: sp\(^3\)

   - In a trigonal pyramidal molecule, the central atom forms three bonds and has one lone pair. The lone pair exerts more repulsion, reducing the bond angle from the ideal tetrahedral value.

  

   Example: 

   - Ammonia (NH\(_3\)): In ammonia, the nitrogen atom is sp\(^3\)-hybridized with three N-H bonds and one lone pair, resulting in a trigonal pyramidal structure with bond angles of 107°.

 

5. Bent or V-Shaped:

   - Geometry: Bent

   - Bond Angle: 104.5° (for two lone pairs) or 119° (for one lone pair)

   - Hybridization: sp\(^2\) or sp\(^3\)

   - A bent shape occurs when the central atom has two bonding pairs and one or two lone pairs. The lone pairs compress the bond angles, leading to a bent geometry.

  

   Example: 

   - Water (H\(_2\)O): Water has two lone pairs on oxygen and two O-H bonds. The lone pairs compress the bond angle to 104.5°, resulting in a bent or V-shaped molecule.

 

6. Trigonal Bipyramidal Shape:

   - Geometry: Trigonal Bipyramidal

   - Bond Angles: 90° and 120°

   - Hybridization: sp\(^3\)d

   - In a trigonal bipyramidal molecule, the central atom forms five bonds, with three bonds in the equatorial plane (120° angles) and two bonds in the axial positions (90° angles).

  

   Example: 

   - Phosphorus Pentachloride (PCl\(_5\)): In \(PCl_5\), the phosphorus atom forms five bonds with chlorine atoms, resulting in a trigonal bipyramidal structure with bond angles of 90° and 120°.

 

7. Octahedral Shape:

   - Geometry: Octahedral

   - Bond Angle: 90°

   - Hybridization: sp\(^3\)d\(^2\)

   - In an octahedral molecule, the central atom forms six bonds, with all bond angles being 90°. The atoms are arranged symmetrically around the central atom.

  

   Example: 

   - Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF\(_6\)): The sulfur atom forms six bonds with fluorine atoms, resulting in an octahedral structure with bond angles of 90°.

 

 

 

 Molecular Shapes with Lone Pairs

 

Lone pairs have a significant impact on molecular shapes because they occupy more space than bonding pairs, resulting in distorted geometries. The presence of lone pairs reduces bond angles and changes the overall molecular shape.

 

1. Ammonia (NH\(_3\)):

   - Geometry: Trigonal Pyramidal

   - Lone Pairs: 1

   - Bond Angle: 107°

   - The lone pair on nitrogen in ammonia causes a distortion from the ideal tetrahedral angle of 109.5°, resulting in a trigonal pyramidal shape.

 

2. Water (H\(_2\)O\)):

   - Geometry: Bent

   - Lone Pairs: 2

   - Bond Angle: 104.5°

   - The two lone pairs on oxygen push the bonding pairs closer together, reducing the bond angle to 104.5° and creating a bent or V-shaped structure.

 

3. Sulfur Dioxide (SO\(_2\)):

   - Geometry: Bent

   - Lone Pairs: 1

   - Bond Angle: 119°

   - In \(SO_2\), the sulfur atom has one lone pair, which causes a distortion in the bond angles from the ideal 120° to 119°, resulting in a bent shape.

 

 

 

 Molecular Shape and Polarity

 

Molecular shape plays a crucial role in determining the polarity of a molecule. Even if individual bonds in a molecule are polar, the overall molecule may be non-polar if the molecular geometry is symmetrical and the bond dipoles cancel each other out.

 

1. Non-Polar Molecules:

   - Molecules with symmetrical shapes, such as linear or tetrahedral geometries, may have non-polar bonds because the bond dipoles cancel each other out.

  

   Example: 

   - Carbon Dioxide (CO\(_2\)): CO\(_2\) has a linear geometry with polar C=O bonds, but the molecule itself is non-polar because the bond dipoles cancel each other out.

 

2. Polar Molecules:

   - Molecules with asymmetrical shapes, such as bent or trigonal pyramidal geometries, are typically polar because the bond dipoles do not cancel out.

  

   Example: 

   - Water (H\(_2\)O): Water has a bent molecular shape with polar O-H bonds, resulting in a net dipole moment, making the molecule polar.

 

 

 

 Conclusion

 

The molecular shape of a molecule is determined by the number of bonding pairs and lone pairs around the central atom, with the VSEPR theory providing a framework for predicting these shapes. Molecular shapes influence a molecule's polarity, reactivity, and interactions with other molecules.

Questions

Q 1. Out of the given ten pairs of combination total pair(s), which results in zero overlapping is: (Assuming \(Z\) is overlapping axis). \(\left(\mathrm{p}_{\mathrm{y}}+\mathrm{s}\right),\left(\mathrm{d}_{\mathrm{xy}}+\mathrm{s}\right),\left(\mathrm{d}_{\mathrm{xy}}+\mathrm{p}_{\mathrm{y}}\right)\) \(\left(\mathrm{p}_{\mathrm{z}}+\mathrm{d}_{\mathrm{xy}}\right),\left(\mathrm{p}_{\mathrm{z}}+\mathrm{s}\right),\left(\mathrm{p}_{\mathrm{y}}+\mathrm{P}_{\mathrm{z}}\right)(\mathrm{s}+\mathrm{s}),\left(\mathrm{s}+\mathrm{p}_{\mathrm{y}}\right),\left(\mathrm{p}_{\mathrm{y}}+\mathrm{p}_{\mathrm{y}}\right)\);

(A)3;

(B)7;

(C)4;

(D)8;

Ionic Bonding


 Ionic Bonding

 

 Definition of Ionic Bonding

 

Ionic bonding is a type of chemical bonding that occurs when one atom transfers one or more electrons to another atom, resulting in the formation of oppositely charged ions. These ions are held together by electrostatic forces of attraction, creating a strong bond between them. Ionic bonding typically occurs between metals and non-metals, where metals lose electrons to form cations (\(M^+\)) and non-metals gain electrons to form anions (\(X^-\)).

 

 

 

 Formation of Ionic Bonds

 

1. Electron Transfer:

   - Ionic bonds form through the transfer of electrons from a metal (which has a low ionization energy and readily loses electrons) to a non-metal (which has a high electron affinity and readily gains electrons).

   - The metal atom becomes a positively charged ion (cation), while the non-metal atom becomes a negatively charged ion (anion).

  

   Example: 

   - In sodium chloride (NaCl), the sodium atom (\(Na\)) donates one electron to chlorine (\(Cl\)), forming \(Na^+\) and \(Cl^-\) ions:

   \[

   Na \rightarrow Na^+ + e^-

   \]

   \[

   Cl + e^- \rightarrow Cl^-

   \]

 

2. Electrostatic Attraction:

   - Once the ions are formed, they are held together by the electrostatic attraction between the positively charged cation and the negatively charged anion. This electrostatic force is very strong and forms a stable ionic bond.

  

   Example: 

   - The \(Na^+\) and \(Cl^-\) ions in sodium chloride are held together by the electrostatic attraction between them, forming a crystalline lattice structure.

 

 

 

 Characteristics of Ionic Bonds

 

1. High Melting and Boiling Points:

   - Ionic compounds typically have high melting and boiling points due to the strong electrostatic forces of attraction between the oppositely charged ions. A large amount of energy is required to break these bonds.

  

   Example: 

   - Sodium chloride (\(NaCl\)) has a high melting point of 801°C because of the strong ionic bonds holding the \(Na^+\) and \(Cl^-\) ions together.

 

2. Solubility in Polar Solvents:

   - Ionic compounds are generally soluble in polar solvents like water because the polar solvent molecules can surround and stabilize the ions, effectively dissolving the compound.

  

   Example: 

   - Sodium chloride (\(NaCl\)) readily dissolves in water, as the polar water molecules interact with the \(Na^+\) and \(Cl^-\) ions, pulling them apart from the crystal lattice.

 

3. Electrical Conductivity in Molten and Aqueous States:

   - Ionic compounds conduct electricity when molten or dissolved in water because the ions are free to move and carry charge. However, in the solid state, they do not conduct electricity because the ions are fixed in place within the lattice structure.

  

   Example: 

   - Molten sodium chloride conducts electricity because the \(Na^+\) and \(Cl^-\) ions are free to move, but solid sodium chloride does not conduct electricity.

 

4. Formation of Crystalline Lattices:

   - Ionic compounds form crystalline lattice structures, where the ions are arranged in a repeating, three-dimensional pattern to maximize the attraction between oppositely charged ions and minimize repulsion between similarly charged ions. This lattice arrangement provides ionic compounds with their characteristic rigidity and hardness.

  

   Example: 

   - Sodium chloride forms a cubic lattice structure in which each sodium ion (\(Na^+\)) is surrounded by six chloride ions (\(Cl^-\)) and vice versa.

 

 

 

 Factors Affecting Ionic Bond Strength

 

1. Charge on the Ions:

   - The higher the charge on the ions, the stronger the electrostatic attraction between them, leading to a stronger ionic bond. For example, a bond between \(Al^{3+}\) and \(O^{2-}\) is stronger than a bond between \(Na^+\) and \(Cl^-\) because of the higher charges on the \(Al^{3+}\) and \(O^{2-}\) ions.

  

   Example: 

   - Magnesium oxide (MgO) has a stronger ionic bond and higher melting point than sodium chloride (\(NaCl\)) because the \(Mg^{2+}\) and \(O^{2-}\) ions have higher charges compared to the \(Na^+\) and \(Cl^-\) ions.

 

2. Size of the Ions:

   - Smaller ions can pack closer together, resulting in stronger electrostatic forces of attraction between them. Larger ions result in weaker ionic bonds due to the increased distance between the charges.

  

   Example: 

   - Lithium fluoride (LiF) has a stronger ionic bond than potassium fluoride (KF) because the \(Li^+\) ion is smaller than the \(K^+\) ion, allowing for a stronger electrostatic attraction with the \(F^-\) ion.

 

3. Lattice Energy:

   - Lattice energy is the energy released when one mole of an ionic solid is formed from its gaseous ions. A higher lattice energy indicates a stronger ionic bond. Lattice energy depends on the charges and sizes of the ions.

  

   Example: 

   - The lattice energy of magnesium oxide (MgO) is higher than that of sodium chloride (\(NaCl\)), indicating stronger ionic bonding in \(MgO\).

 

 

 

 Ionic Bonding vs. Covalent Bonding

 

1. Electron Transfer vs. Electron Sharing:

   - Ionic bonds involve the complete transfer of electrons from one atom to another, resulting in the formation of ions. In contrast, covalent bonds involve the sharing of electrons between atoms.

  

   Example: 

   - In sodium chloride (\(NaCl\)), sodium transfers one electron to chlorine, forming \(Na^+\) and \(Cl^-\) ions (ionic bond). In water (\(H_2O\)), oxygen and hydrogen share electrons (covalent bond).

 

2. Electronegativity Difference:

   - Ionic bonds form when there is a large difference in electronegativity between the atoms (generally greater than 1.7). Covalent bonds form when the electronegativity difference is smaller.

  

   Example: 

   - The electronegativity difference between sodium (0.93) and chlorine (3.16) in \(NaCl\) is large, leading to ionic bonding, while the electronegativity difference between hydrogen (2.2) and oxygen (3.44) in \(H_2O\) is smaller, leading to covalent bonding.

 

3. Physical Properties:

   - Ionic compounds typically have higher melting and boiling points, are soluble in polar solvents, and conduct electricity when molten or dissolved. Covalent compounds generally have lower melting and boiling points, are soluble in non-polar solvents, and do not conduct electricity.

  

   Example: 

   - Sodium chloride (\(NaCl\)) has a higher melting point and conducts electricity in solution, while carbon dioxide (\(CO_2\)) has a lower melting point and does not conduct electricity in any state.

 

 

 

 Examples of Ionic Compounds

 

1. Sodium Chloride (NaCl):

   - Sodium chloride is an ionic compound formed by the transfer of one electron from sodium (\(Na\)) to chlorine (\(Cl\)). The resulting \(Na^+\) and \(Cl^-\) ions are held together by strong electrostatic forces, forming a crystalline lattice structure. NaCl is soluble in water and has a high melting point.

 

2. Magnesium Oxide (MgO):

   - Magnesium oxide is formed by the transfer of two electrons from magnesium (\(Mg\)) to oxygen (\(O\)). The resulting \(Mg^{2+}\) and \(O^{2-}\) ions form a strong ionic bond, giving \(MgO\) a very high melting point and strong electrostatic forces of attraction.

 

3. Calcium Fluoride (CaF\(_2\)):

   - Calcium fluoride is formed by the transfer of two electrons from calcium (\(Ca^{2+}\)) to two fluorine atoms (\(F^-\)). The ionic bond between the \(Ca^{2+}\) and \(F^-\) ions results in a stable crystal lattice structure.

 

 

 

 Conclusion

 

Ionic bonding is characterized by the transfer of electrons from a metal to a non-metal, resulting in the formation of oppositely charged ions held together by electrostatic forces. Ionic compounds exhibit high melting and boiling points, solubility in polar solvents, and conductivity in the molten or aqueous state. The strength of ionic bonds depends on factors such as the charge and size of the ions, as well as the lattice energy of the compound.

Questions

Q 1. Arrange the following in increasing order of melting point: \(\mathrm{Li}_{2} \mathrm{O}, \mathrm{LiF}, \mathrm{Li}_{3} \mathrm{~N}\);

(A) \(\mathrm{Li}_{3} \mathrm{~N}<\mathrm{Li}_{2} \mathrm{O}<\mathrm{LiF}\);

(B) \(\mathrm{Li}_{2} \mathrm{O}<\mathrm{Li}_{3} \mathrm{~N}<\mathrm{LiF}\);

(C) \(\mathrm{LiF}<\mathrm{Li}_{2} \mathrm{O}<\mathrm{Li}_{3} \mathrm{~N}\);

(D) \(\mathrm{Li}_{3} \mathrm{~N}<\mathrm{LiF}<\mathrm{Li}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) ;

Covalent and Sigma Bonds


 Covalent and Sigma Bonds

 

 Covalent Bonds

 

A covalent bond is a type of chemical bond where two atoms share one or more pairs of electrons. Covalent bonding occurs between non-metal atoms that have similar electronegativities and results in the formation of a molecule. In a covalent bond, each atom contributes one or more electrons to be shared between them, creating a stable arrangement by filling their outer electron shells.

 

- Single Covalent Bond: Involves the sharing of one pair of electrons between two atoms.

- Double Covalent Bond: Involves the sharing of two pairs of electrons.

- Triple Covalent Bond: Involves the sharing of three pairs of electrons.

 

 

 

 Characteristics of Covalent Bonds

 

1. Formation:

   - Covalent bonds form when atoms with similar electronegativities share electrons to achieve a stable electronic configuration (usually an octet for main group elements).

  

   Example: 

   - In water (H\(_2\)O), oxygen forms two covalent bonds with two hydrogen atoms by sharing one electron pair with each hydrogen atom.

 

2. Bond Strength:

   - Covalent bonds are generally strong because of the sharing of electrons between the bonded atoms. However, the strength of covalent bonds depends on the bond length (the shorter the bond, the stronger it is) and bond order (single, double, or triple bond).

  

   Example: 

   - A triple bond (as in nitrogen, \(N_2\)) is stronger and shorter than a double bond (as in oxygen, \(O_2\)), which in turn is stronger and shorter than a single bond (as in hydrogen, \(H_2\)).

 

3. Directionality:

   - Covalent bonds are directional, meaning the bonded atoms share electrons in specific orientations, leading to fixed angles between atoms and resulting in defined molecular shapes.

  

   Example: 

   - In methane (CH\(_4\)), the four C-H covalent bonds form a tetrahedral shape with bond angles of 109.5°.

 

4. Physical Properties:

   - Covalent compounds generally have low melting and boiling points compared to ionic compounds because the forces between molecules (intermolecular forces) are weaker than the ionic bonds between ions. They are often poor conductors of electricity in any state because there are no free ions or electrons to carry charge.

  

   Example: 

   - Carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\)) is a covalent molecule with weak intermolecular forces, resulting in a low boiling point and the inability to conduct electricity.

 

 

 

 Types of Covalent Bonds

 

1. Single Covalent Bond:

   - A single covalent bond involves the sharing of one pair of electrons between two atoms.

  

   Example: 

   - Hydrogen (H\(_2\)) forms a single bond where each hydrogen atom shares one electron, completing its \(1s\) orbital.

 

2. Double Covalent Bond:

   - A double covalent bond involves the sharing of two pairs of electrons between two atoms. Double bonds are stronger and shorter than single bonds.

  

   Example: 

   - Oxygen (O\(_2\)) forms a double bond where each oxygen atom shares two electrons with the other, forming a stable molecule.

 

3. Triple Covalent Bond:

   - A triple covalent bond involves the sharing of three pairs of electrons between two atoms. Triple bonds are the strongest and shortest covalent bonds.

  

   Example: 

   - Nitrogen (N\(_2\)) forms a triple bond where each nitrogen atom shares three electrons with the other, making it a very stable molecule.

 

 

 

 Sigma (\(\sigma\)) Bonds

 

A sigma bond (\(\sigma\)-bond) is the strongest type of covalent bond, formed by the head-on overlap of atomic orbitals along the bond axis (the line connecting the two nuclei). It is the first bond formed between two atoms and provides the primary structural stability in molecules. Sigma bonds allow for free rotation around the bond axis, making them more flexible than other types of bonds like pi (\(\pi\)) bonds.

 

 

 

 Formation of Sigma Bonds

 

1. Head-On Overlap:

   - Sigma bonds form through the direct, head-on overlap of atomic orbitals. The overlap can occur between:

     - Two s-orbitals,

     - An s-orbital and a p-orbital,

     - Two p-orbitals.

  

   Example: 

   - In hydrogen (H\(_2\)), the sigma bond forms by the overlap of two \(1s\) orbitals from the hydrogen atoms.

  

   - In methane (CH\(_4\)), the sigma bonds form between the sp\(^3\)-hybridized orbitals of carbon and the \(1s\) orbitals of hydrogen atoms.

 

2. Strongest Covalent Bond:

   - Sigma bonds are stronger than other types of covalent bonds (like \(\pi\)-bonds) because the head-on overlap of orbitals allows for maximum overlap, which results in a stronger bond.

  

   Example: 

   - The C-H bonds in methane (\(CH_4\)) are all sigma bonds formed by the overlap of sp\(^3\) hybrid orbitals from carbon with \(1s\) orbitals from hydrogen.

 

3. Single Bonds Are Sigma Bonds:

   - Every single bond in a molecule is a sigma bond. Double and triple bonds also contain sigma bonds, but they also include \(\pi\)-bonds (see below).

  

   Example: 

   - In ethene (C\(_2\)H\(_4\)), the C=C double bond contains one sigma bond (from the sp\(^2\)-sp\(^2\) overlap) and one \(\pi\)-bond (from the sideways overlap of unhybridized p-orbitals).

 

4. Free Rotation:

   - Sigma bonds allow free rotation around the bond axis, which means that the atoms connected by a sigma bond can rotate relative to each other without breaking the bond.

  

   Example: 

   - In ethane (C\(_2\)H\(_6\)), the carbon-carbon sigma bond allows for free rotation of the two CH\(_3\) groups around the C-C bond axis.

 

 

 

 Sigma Bonds in Different Types of Covalent Bonds

 

1. Single Bonds:

   - In a single bond, there is one sigma bond between the two atoms. The sigma bond provides the bond's strength and stability.

  

   Example: 

   - In hydrogen (H\(_2\)), the single bond between the hydrogen atoms is a sigma bond formed by the overlap of two \(1s\) orbitals.

 

2. Double Bonds:

   - In a double bond, there is one sigma bond and one pi bond (\(\pi\)-bond). The sigma bond is formed by the head-on overlap of hybridized orbitals, while the \(\pi\)-bond is formed by the sideways overlap of unhybridized p-orbitals.

  

   Example: 

   - In ethene (C\(_2\)H\(_4\)), the C=C double bond contains one sigma bond (from sp\(^2\)-sp\(^2\) overlap) and one \(\pi\)-bond (from the sideways overlap of p-orbitals).

 

3. Triple Bonds:

   - In a triple bond, there is one sigma bond and two \(\pi\)-bonds. The sigma bond provides the primary structural stability, while the \(\pi\)-bonds contribute to the overall bond strength.

  

   Example: 

   - In acetylene (C\(_2\)H\(_2\)), the C≡C triple bond contains one sigma bond (from sp-sp overlap) and two \(\pi\)-bonds (from the sideways overlap of p-orbitals).

 

 

 

 Differences Between Sigma and Pi Bonds

 

1. Bond Formation:

   - Sigma Bonds: Formed by head-on overlap of atomic orbitals along the bond axis.

   - Pi Bonds: Formed by the sideways overlap of unhybridized p-orbitals above and below the bond axis.

 

2. Strength:

   - Sigma Bonds: Stronger due to greater overlap.

   - Pi Bonds: Weaker because of less effective overlap.

 

3. Rotation:

   - Sigma Bonds: Allow free rotation around the bond axis.

   - Pi Bonds: Restrict rotation, as breaking the \(\pi\)-bond would require breaking the sideways overlap.

 

4. Occurrence:

   - Sigma Bonds: Present in all single bonds.

   - Pi Bonds: Present only in double and triple bonds, along with a sigma bond.

 

 

 

 Conclusion

 

Covalent bonding involves the sharing of electrons between atoms, leading to the formation of single, double, or triple bonds. Sigma bonds are the primary covalent bonds formed by head-on overlap of orbitals and are present in all single bonds. They are the strongest covalent bonds and allow for free rotation around the bond axis. Understanding sigma bonds is crucial for predicting

Questions

Q 1. Discuss and compare the dipole moments as well as bond angles in \(\mathrm{NCl}_{3}\) and \(\mathrm{PCl}_{3}\).;

(A) Bond angle \(\mathrm{NCl}_{3}>\) Bond angle \(\mathrm{PCl}_{3}\);

(B) Bond angle \(\mathrm{NCl}_{3}<\) Bond angle \(\mathrm{PCl}_{3}\);

(C) Bond angle \(\mathrm{NCl}_{3}=\) Bond angle \(\mathrm{PCl}_{3}\);

(D) None of these;

Octet Rule


 Octet Rule

 

 Definition of the Octet Rule

 

The Octet Rule states that atoms tend to form bonds in such a way that each atom has eight electrons in its valence shell, resembling the electron configuration of a noble gas. This rule helps explain the stability of many molecules and ions in chemical bonding, particularly in the formation of covalent or ionic compounds. By achieving a full octet (or duet for hydrogen), atoms attain a stable, lower-energy electronic configuration.

 

 

 

 Explanation of the Octet Rule

 

1. Stable Electron Configuration:

   - Atoms achieve stability by having a full outer shell of eight electrons, similar to the electron configuration of noble gases such as neon (Ne) and argon (Ar). Noble gases are chemically inert because their valence shells are full, and the octet rule reflects this stable arrangement.

  

   Example: 

   - In sodium chloride (NaCl), sodium loses one electron to achieve the stable electron configuration of neon, and chlorine gains one electron to achieve the stable electron configuration of argon.

 

2. Formation of Covalent Bonds:

   - Atoms can achieve an octet by sharing electrons with other atoms, resulting in the formation of covalent bonds. Each shared pair of electrons counts toward the octet of both bonded atoms.

  

   Example: 

   - In water (H\(_2\)O), oxygen shares two electrons with each hydrogen atom, filling its valence shell with eight electrons. Hydrogen, following the duet rule, achieves a full outer shell with two electrons.

 

3. Formation of Ionic Bonds:

   - In ionic bonding, atoms achieve an octet by transferring electrons. Metals, which have few valence electrons, lose electrons to form cations, while non-metals, which have nearly full valence shells, gain electrons to form anions.

  

   Example: 

   - In sodium chloride (NaCl), sodium loses one electron to form \(Na^+\), achieving the electron configuration of neon, while chlorine gains one electron to form \(Cl^-\), achieving the electron configuration of argon.

 

 

 

 Application of the Octet Rule

 

1. Covalent Compounds:

   - Most covalent compounds follow the octet rule, where atoms share electrons to complete their octet and form stable molecules. Carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and halogens typically obey the octet rule in forming bonds.

  

   Example: 

   - In methane (CH\(_4\)), carbon forms four covalent bonds with hydrogen, achieving a complete octet by sharing electrons with the hydrogen atoms.

 

2. Ionic Compounds:

   - The octet rule is also crucial in the formation of ionic compounds, where metals lose electrons to non-metals, resulting in stable ionic bonds.

  

   Example: 

   - In magnesium oxide (MgO), magnesium loses two electrons to form \(Mg^{2+}\), and oxygen gains two electrons to form \(O^{2-}\), both achieving octets.

 

 

 

 Exceptions to the Octet Rule

 

While the octet rule is widely applicable, there are important exceptions:

 

1. Incomplete Octets:

   - Some atoms, particularly those in Group 13 like boron and aluminum, are stable with fewer than eight electrons in their valence shell.

  

   Example: 

   - Boron trifluoride (BF\(_3\)): Boron forms three covalent bonds with fluorine, but it has only six electrons in its valence shell. Despite this, \(BF_3\) is a stable molecule.

 

2. Expanded Octets:

   - Atoms in the third period and beyond can have more than eight electrons in their valence shell due to the availability of d-orbitals. This allows them to form more than four bonds, leading to expanded octets.

  

   Example: 

   - Phosphorus pentachloride (PCl\(_5\)): Phosphorus in \(PCl_5\) forms five covalent bonds, resulting in ten electrons in its valence shell.

 

3. Odd-Electron Species:

   - Some molecules have an odd number of electrons, making it impossible for all atoms to have an octet. These molecules are called free radicals.

  

   Example: 

   - Nitric oxide (NO) has 11 valence electrons, and nitrogen does not achieve a full octet, making \(NO\) a reactive free radical.

 

 

 

 Limitations of the Octet Rule

 

While the octet rule provides a useful guideline for predicting the stability of many compounds, it has limitations:

- Transition metals and many d-block and f-block elements do not follow the octet rule due to their involvement of d-orbitals and f-orbitals in bonding.

- Molecules with delocalized electrons (e.g., in aromatic compounds like benzene) cannot be explained purely by the octet rule, as electrons are shared across multiple atoms.

- The octet rule does not explain the bonding in ionic compounds with complex lattice structures, where factors like lattice energy and electrostatic attraction are crucial.

 

 

 

 Examples of Octet Rule in Molecules

 

1. Carbon Dioxide (CO\(_2\)):

   - Carbon dioxide follows the octet rule, with carbon forming two double bonds with oxygen atoms. Each atom in the molecule achieves a complete octet of electrons.

  

   \[

   O = C = O

   \]

 

2. Sodium Chloride (NaCl):

   - Sodium transfers one electron to chlorine, resulting in the formation of \(Na^+\) and \(Cl^-\) ions. Both sodium and chlorine achieve an octet, making the compound stable.

 

3. Water (H\(_2\)O):

   - Oxygen forms two covalent bonds with hydrogen atoms, sharing electrons to complete its octet, while hydrogen atoms achieve a full outer shell with two electrons (duet rule).

 

 

 

 Importance of the Octet Rule in Chemical Reactions

 

The octet rule provides a framework for understanding how atoms form stable bonds during chemical reactions. Atoms will tend to gain, lose, or share electrons in a way that results in a full valence shell, either by forming covalent bonds (sharing electrons) or ionic bonds (transferring electrons).

 

1. Bond Formation:

   - The octet rule explains why certain elements form specific types of bonds. For example, metals like sodium tend to lose electrons and form cations, while non-metals like chlorine gain electrons and form anions.

  

2. Predicting Reactivity:

   - The tendency of atoms to complete their octet can be used to predict the reactivity of elements. For example, halogens (Group 17) are highly reactive because they need only one more electron to achieve a full octet, while noble gases (Group 18) are inert because they already have a full octet.

 

 

 

 Conclusion

 

The octet rule is a key concept in understanding how atoms achieve stability through bonding, either by sharing electrons in covalent bonds or transferring electrons in ionic bonds. While widely applicable, the octet rule has limitations and exceptions, especially for elements in the third period and beyond. The rule provides a foundation for predicting the structures and reactivity of many molecules, making it essential for understanding chemical bonding and reactions.

Questions

Q 1. Which one among the following does not have the hydrogen bond?;

(A) Phenol;

(B) Water;

(C) Liquid \(\mathrm{NH}_{3}\);

(D) Liquid \(\mathrm{HCl}\);

Resonance


 Resonance

 

 Definition of Resonance

 

Resonance is a concept in chemistry that describes the delocalization of electrons in molecules where the bonding cannot be represented by a single Lewis structure. Instead, two or more resonance structures (also called resonance forms) are drawn, and the actual structure of the molecule is a hybrid of these structures. The resonance hybrid is a more accurate representation of the molecule, where the electrons are delocalized over several atoms or bonds, contributing to the molecule's stability.

 

The resonance structures are hypothetical, and none of them individually represents the real structure of the molecule. The real structure, known as the resonance hybrid, is an intermediate that blends characteristics of all the resonance forms.

 

 

 

 Key Features of Resonance

 

1. Delocalization of Electrons:

   - In resonance, electrons are not localized between two atoms but are spread out over multiple atoms. This delocalization usually occurs in \(\pi\)-bonds or non-bonding electrons (lone pairs), leading to increased stability of the molecule.

  

   Example: 

   - In benzene (C\(_6\)H\(_6\)), the six \(\pi\)-electrons are delocalized over the six carbon atoms in the ring. This delocalization makes benzene much more stable than if it had alternating single and double bonds in a fixed position.

 

2. Resonance Structures:

   - A molecule can have two or more resonance structures, each showing different possible arrangements of the electrons. The true structure of the molecule is not any single resonance form but a combination of all the possible structures.

  

   Example: 

   - In ozone (O\(_3\)), there are two resonance structures where the double bond and single bond alternate between the two oxygen atoms. The actual structure is a hybrid of these two forms, where the bonds are of equal length.

 

3. Resonance Hybrid:

   - The resonance hybrid is the actual structure of the molecule, representing the weighted average of all the resonance structures. The hybrid has delocalized electrons and is more stable than any individual resonance form.

  

   Example: 

   - In nitrate ion (NO\(_3^{-}\)), the resonance hybrid shows equal bond lengths between nitrogen and all three oxygen atoms, with the negative charge delocalized over the three oxygens.

 

4. Equivalence of Resonance Forms:

   - In some molecules, all resonance structures contribute equally to the resonance hybrid. In others, one resonance form may contribute more to the hybrid than the others.

  

   Example: 

   - In carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\)), one resonance structure where carbon has a double bond with both oxygen atoms contributes more than other structures with charges, due to its lower energy.

 

 

 

 Resonance and Stability

 

1. Resonance Stabilization:

   - The delocalization of electrons through resonance provides resonance stabilization, lowering the overall energy of the molecule. Molecules with resonance are generally more stable than those without delocalized electrons.

  

   Example: 

   - Benzene (C\(_6\)H\(_6\)) is highly stable due to the delocalization of \(\pi\)-electrons over the entire carbon ring. This stability explains its resistance to addition reactions, as compared to alkenes.

 

2. Bond Lengths in Resonance Hybrids:

   - In resonance hybrids, bond lengths are often intermediate between those of single and double bonds. This is due to the partial double-bond character in all the bonds involved in resonance.

  

   Example: 

   - In carbonate ion (CO\(_3^{2-}\)), all three C-O bonds are of equal length, shorter than a typical single bond but longer than a double bond.

 

3. Charge Distribution:

   - In resonance hybrids, the charge is delocalized across several atoms, resulting in a more even distribution of charge. This charge delocalization contributes to the molecule’s overall stability.

  

   Example: 

   - In the nitrate ion (NO\(_3^{-}\)), the negative charge is spread equally over all three oxygen atoms rather than being localized on one atom, leading to greater stability.

 

 

 

 Rules for Drawing Resonance Structures

 

1. Same Atomic Positions:

   - All resonance structures must have the same arrangement of atoms. Only the placement of electrons (bonding and non-bonding) changes between different resonance structures.

  

   Example: 

   - In ozone (O\(_3\)), the arrangement of the oxygen atoms remains the same in both resonance structures, but the location of the double and single bonds alternates.

 

2. Same Number of Electrons:

   - The total number of valence electrons must remain the same across all resonance structures.

  

   Example: 

   - In nitrate ion (NO\(_3^{-}\)), each resonance structure has the same number of electrons, with the negative charge distributed among the oxygens.

 

3. Octet Rule:

   - Resonance structures should satisfy the octet rule for second-period elements like carbon, nitrogen, and oxygen. However, some exceptions may exist for expanded octet elements (like sulfur or phosphorus).

  

   Example: 

   - In nitrate ion (NO\(_3^{-}\)), nitrogen has an octet in all resonance structures, while the charge is distributed over the oxygen atoms.

 

4. Formal Charge Minimization:

   - Resonance structures with lower formal charges are more stable and contribute more to the resonance hybrid. Structures with formal charges close to zero or negative charges on more electronegative atoms are preferred.

  

   Example: 

   - In carbon dioxide (CO\(_2\)), the resonance structure where there are no formal charges contributes more to the hybrid than structures with charged atoms.

 

 

 

 Examples of Resonance in Molecules

 

1. Benzene (C\(_6\)H\(_6\)):

   - Benzene has alternating single and double bonds between carbon atoms in a hexagonal ring. The actual structure of benzene is a resonance hybrid, where the \(\pi\)-electrons are delocalized across the entire ring, giving each bond partial double-bond character. This delocalization explains the stability and unique chemical properties of benzene.

 

2. Nitrate Ion (NO\(_3^{-}\)):

   - The nitrate ion has three resonance structures, each with a double bond between nitrogen and one oxygen atom, while the other two oxygen atoms have single bonds and carry a negative charge. The resonance hybrid shows that all three N-O bonds are equivalent, with the negative charge distributed equally over the oxygen atoms.

 

3. Ozone (O\(_3\)):

   - Ozone has two resonance structures, where the double bond alternates between the two oxygen atoms. The resonance hybrid shows that both O-O bonds are of equal length, reflecting partial double-bond character for each bond.

 

4. Carbonate Ion (CO\(_3^{2-}\)):

   - The carbonate ion has three resonance structures, where the double bond is between carbon and one oxygen atom, and the other two oxygen atoms have single bonds. In the resonance hybrid, all three C-O bonds are equivalent, and the charge is delocalized over all three oxygen atoms.

 

 

 

 Importance of Resonance in Chemistry

 

1. Stability:

   - Resonance contributes to the stability of molecules by allowing electron delocalization. The resonance hybrid is always more stable than any individual resonance structure.

  

   Example: 

   - Benzene is much more stable than hypothetical structures with fixed single and double bonds due to the resonance delocalization of electrons.

 

2. Bond Lengths and Strengths:

   - Resonance explains why bonds in molecules like carbonate ions or benzene are intermediate in length and strength between single and double bonds.

  

   Example: 

   - In the carbonate ion (CO\(_3^{2-}\)), all three C-O bonds are the same length due to resonance, and the bond length is intermediate between a single and double bond.

 

3. Predicting Reactivity:

   - Resonance helps explain the reactivity of molecules in chemical reactions. For example, the delocalization of \(\pi\)-electrons in benzene makes it less reactive in addition reactions compared to alkenes, but it is more reactive in electrophilic substitution reactions.

 

4. Acidity and Basicity:

   - Resonance plays a crucial role in determining the acidity or basicity of molecules by stabilizing conjugate bases or acids.

  

   Example: 

   - In carboxylic acids, the resonance stabilization of the carboxylate ion makes these acids relatively strong because the negative charge is delocalized over both oxygen atoms.

 

 

 

 Conclusion

 

Resonance is a key concept that explains the delocalization of electrons in molecules where a single Lewis structure is insufficient. The resonance hybrid provides a more accurate representation of the molecule, contributing to its stability and influencing properties like bond length, bond strength, and reactivity.

Questions

Q 1. The experimental value of the dipole moment of \(\mathrm{HCl}\) is 1.03D. The length of the \(\mathrm{H}-\mathrm{Cl}\) bond is \(1.275 \AA\). The percentage of ionic character in \(\mathrm{HCl}\) is: [Given: \(1 \mathrm{D}=10^{-18}\) esu \(\mathrm{cm}]\)\n;

(B) \(21 \%\);

(C) \(7 \%\);

(D) \(17 \%\);

NONE;

Lattice Energy


 Lattice Energy

 

 Definition of Lattice Energy

 

Lattice energy is the amount of energy released when one mole of an ionic solid is formed from its constituent gaseous ions. It is a measure of the strength of the forces holding the ions together in an ionic crystal. Alternatively, lattice energy can also be defined as the energy required to break one mole of an ionic solid into its gaseous ions, indicating the strength of the ionic bonds.

 

Lattice energy is always positive when considered as the energy required to separate the ions (endothermic), and negative when considered as the energy released during the formation of the ionic lattice (exothermic). It plays a crucial role in determining the stability, solubility, melting point, and hardness of ionic compounds.

 

 

 

 Factors Affecting Lattice Energy

 

1. Charge on the Ions:

   - Lattice energy increases with the charge of the ions. Higher charges result in stronger electrostatic forces of attraction between the ions, leading to higher lattice energies.

  

   Example: 

   - Magnesium oxide (MgO) has a higher lattice energy than sodium chloride (NaCl) because \(Mg^{2+}\) and \(O^{2-}\) have higher charges than \(Na^+\) and \(Cl^-\).

 

2. Ionic Radii:

   - Lattice energy decreases as the size of the ions increases because larger ions have a greater distance between their nuclei, reducing the strength of the electrostatic forces of attraction.

  

   Example: 

   - Lithium fluoride (LiF) has a higher lattice energy than potassium fluoride (KF) because the \(Li^+\) ion is smaller than the \(K^+\) ion, leading to a stronger attraction between \(Li^+\) and \(F^-\).

 

3. Distance Between Ions:

   - The interionic distance between the cations and anions in the crystal lattice affects lattice energy. Shorter distances between ions result in stronger electrostatic attractions, increasing lattice energy.

  

   Example: 

   - In calcium chloride (CaCl\(_2\)), the shorter distance between the smaller \(Ca^{2+}\) and \(Cl^-\) ions leads to a higher lattice energy than in a compound with larger ions.

 

 

 

 Mathematical Expression for Lattice Energy

 

Lattice energy (\(U\)) can be approximated by the Born-Landé equation:

 

\[

U = \dfrac{N_A \cdot M \cdot z^+ \cdot z^- \cdot e^2}{4 \pi \epsilon_0 \cdot r_0} \left(1 - \dfrac{1}{n} \right)

\]

 

Where:

- \(N_A\) is Avogadro's number,

- \(M\) is the Madelung constant, which depends on the structure of the crystal lattice,

- \(z^+\) and \(z^-\) are the charges of the cation and anion, respectively,

- \(e\) is the elementary charge,

- \(\epsilon_0\) is the permittivity of free space,

- \(r_0\) is the interionic distance,

- \(n\) is the Born exponent, which depends on the compressibility of the ions.

 

This equation shows that lattice energy increases with higher ionic charges and shorter interionic distances.

 

 

 

 Importance of Lattice Energy in Ionic Compounds

 

1. Stability of Ionic Compounds:

   - The larger the lattice energy, the more stable the ionic compound. Higher lattice energy means that more energy is required to break the ionic lattice, indicating stronger ionic bonds.

  

   Example: 

   - Magnesium oxide (MgO) is highly stable due to its high lattice energy compared to compounds like sodium chloride (NaCl).

 

2. Melting and Boiling Points:

   - Ionic compounds with high lattice energy typically have high melting and boiling points because the strong electrostatic forces holding the ions together require significant energy to break.

  

   Example: 

   - Sodium chloride (NaCl) has a high melting point of 801°C due to its strong ionic bonds and high lattice energy.

 

3. Solubility:

   - Lattice energy affects the solubility of ionic compounds in water. Compounds with lower lattice energy are generally more soluble because less energy is required to break the ionic bonds and dissolve the compound in water.

  

   Example: 

   - Silver chloride (AgCl) has a high lattice energy, making it relatively insoluble in water, while sodium chloride (NaCl), with lower lattice energy, is highly soluble.

 

4. Hardness and Brittleness:

   - Ionic compounds with high lattice energy are typically hard and brittle because of the strong forces holding the ions in a rigid crystal lattice. However, when the lattice is distorted (e.g., by applying force), the like-charged ions repel each other, causing the crystal to break easily.

  

   Example: 

   - Calcium fluoride (CaF\(_2\)) is a hard but brittle ionic compound due to its high lattice energy.

 

 

 

 Examples of Lattice Energy in Ionic Compounds

 

1. Sodium Chloride (NaCl):

   - Sodium chloride is a common ionic compound with a lattice energy of approximately 787 kJ/mol. Its high lattice energy contributes to its high melting point and solubility in water.

 

2. Magnesium Oxide (MgO):

   - Magnesium oxide has a very high lattice energy of about 3795 kJ/mol, making it one of the most stable ionic compounds. This high lattice energy results from the high charges on the magnesium (\(Mg^{2+}\)) and oxygen (\(O^{2-}\)) ions and their small sizes.

 

3. Lithium Fluoride (LiF):

   - Lithium fluoride has a high lattice energy of about 1030 kJ/mol, due to the small size of the \(Li^+\) and \(F^-\) ions. This high lattice energy makes lithium fluoride very stable with a high melting point.

 

4. Calcium Fluoride (CaF\(_2\)):

   - Calcium fluoride has a high lattice energy of about 2630 kJ/mol, due to the charge on the \(Ca^{2+}\) and \(F^-\) ions. This contributes to its hardness and high melting point.

 

 

 

 Lattice Energy vs. Hydration Energy

 

The hydration energy is the energy released when ions are surrounded by water molecules (hydrated) in aqueous solution. The solubility of an ionic compound depends on the balance between its lattice energy and hydration energy:

 

- If the hydration energy exceeds the lattice energy, the compound will dissolve in water.

- If the lattice energy is greater than the hydration energy, the compound will be insoluble or sparingly soluble.

 

Example:

- Sodium chloride (NaCl) dissolves in water because its hydration energy compensates for its lattice energy, making the dissolution process energetically favorable.

 

 

 

 Born-Haber Cycle

 

The Born-Haber cycle is a thermodynamic cycle used to calculate lattice energy indirectly. It involves several steps that include ionization energy, electron affinity, enthalpy of atomization, and bond dissociation energies. The lattice energy can be determined using Hess's Law, which states that the total enthalpy change for a process is the sum of the enthalpy changes of individual steps.

 

Steps in the Born-Haber Cycle:

1. Sublimation of the metal (convert solid metal to gas).

2. Ionization energy (remove electrons from the metal to form a cation).

3. Bond dissociation energy (separate the diatomic non-metal to form atoms).

4. Electron affinity (add electrons to the non-metal atoms to form anions).

5. Lattice energy (combine gaseous ions to form the ionic solid).

 

Example:

- The Born-Haber cycle is often used to calculate the lattice energy of compounds like sodium chloride (NaCl).

 

 

 

 Conclusion

 

Lattice energy is a critical concept in understanding the stability, melting point, and solubility of ionic compounds. It is influenced by the charge and size of the ions involved and is directly related to the strength of the ionic bonds in a crystal lattice. Compounds with high lattice energies tend to be more stable, harder, and less soluble, while those with lower lattice energies are more likely to dissolve in water.

Questions

Q 1. Boiling point of \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\) is higher than that of \(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{~S}\), because the former;

(A) is capable of forming \(\mathrm{H}\) - bonds;

(B) has higher molecular mass;

(C) has relatively strong covalent bonds;

(D) is capable of forming co-ordinate bonds with \(\mathrm{H}^{+}\)ions;

Charge Calculation


 Charge Calculation

 

 Definition of Charge Calculation

 

Charge calculation refers to the process of determining the net charge on an ion or molecule, or the formal charge on individual atoms within a molecule. In chemistry, calculating the charge helps us understand the distribution of electrons in compounds and ions, and it is crucial for predicting molecular structure, reactivity, and stability.

 

There are two primary types of charge calculations:

1. Net Charge of Ions and Molecules: This is the overall charge on an ion or molecule based on the total number of protons (positive charges) and electrons (negative charges).

2. Formal Charge of Atoms: This is the hypothetical charge assigned to an atom in a molecule, assuming that electrons in covalent bonds are shared equally between atoms, regardless of their actual electronegativity.

 

 

 

 Net Charge Calculation for Ions

 

The net charge of an ion is determined by the difference between the number of protons (positive charges) and electrons (negative charges). An ion is formed when an atom or group of atoms gains or loses electrons.

 

- Cation: A positively charged ion that has lost electrons.

- Anion: A negatively charged ion that has gained electrons.

 

 Formula for Net Charge:

\[

\text{Net Charge} = \text{Number of Protons} - \text{Number of Electrons}

\]

 

Examples:

1. Sodium Ion (\(Na^+\)):

   - Sodium has 11 protons and, in its neutral state, 11 electrons. When it loses one electron to form \(Na^+\), the number of protons remains 11, but the number of electrons becomes 10.

   \[

   \text{Net Charge} = 11 - 10 = +1

   \]

   Hence, sodium forms a \(Na^+\) cation.

 

2. Chloride Ion (\(Cl^-\)):

   - Chlorine has 17 protons and 17 electrons in its neutral state. When it gains one electron, the number of protons remains 17, but the number of electrons becomes 18.

   \[

   \text{Net Charge} = 17 - 18 = -1

   \]

   Therefore, chlorine forms a \(Cl^-\) anion.

 

 

 

 Formal Charge Calculation

 

Formal charge is a tool used in Lewis structures to determine the charge on individual atoms in a molecule, assuming that electrons in chemical bonds are shared equally between atoms, regardless of their electronegativity.

 

 Formula for Formal Charge:

\[

\text{Formal Charge} = \text{Valence Electrons} - \left( \text{Lone Pair Electrons} + \frac{1}{2} \times \text{Bonding Electrons} \right)

\]

Where:

- Valence Electrons: Number of electrons in the outermost shell of the atom.

- Lone Pair Electrons: Electrons that are not involved in bonding (non-bonding electrons).

- Bonding Electrons: Electrons shared between atoms in covalent bonds.

 

The sum of the formal charges of all atoms in a neutral molecule must be zero, while in an ion, the sum of the formal charges must equal the net charge of the ion.

 

 

 

 Steps to Calculate Formal Charge

 

1. Draw the Lewis Structure:

   - Ensure that you have drawn the correct Lewis structure of the molecule or ion with all bonding and lone pairs shown.

 

2. Count the Valence Electrons:

   - Determine the number of valence electrons for each atom from the periodic table.

 

3. Count the Lone Pair Electrons:

   - Count the non-bonding (lone pair) electrons around each atom.

 

4. Count the Bonding Electrons:

   - For each bond, assign half of the bonding electrons to the atom in question.

 

5. Use the Formal Charge Formula:

   - Apply the formula to calculate the formal charge of each atom.

 

 

 

 Examples of Formal Charge Calculation

 

1. Oxygen Atom in Water (\(H_2O\)):

   - Step 1: Oxygen has 6 valence electrons.

   - Step 2: Oxygen has two lone pairs (4 electrons) and forms two covalent bonds with hydrogen (4 bonding electrons total).

  

   \[

   \text{Formal Charge of Oxygen} = 6 - \left(4 + \frac{1}{2} \times 4 \right) = 6 - 6 = 0

   \]

   The formal charge on oxygen is 0.

 

2. Nitrogen in Ammonium Ion (\(NH_4^+\)):

   - Step 1: Nitrogen has 5 valence electrons.

   - Step 2: Nitrogen forms four covalent bonds with hydrogen (8 bonding electrons total), and it has no lone pairs.

  

   \[

   \text{Formal Charge of Nitrogen} = 5 - \left(0 + \frac{1}{2} \times 8 \right) = 5 - 4 = +1

   \]

   The formal charge on nitrogen in \(NH_4^+\) is +1.

 

3. Carbon Dioxide (\(CO_2\)):

   - Step 1: Carbon has 4 valence electrons. In \(CO_2\), it forms two double bonds with oxygen (8 bonding electrons).

  

   \[

   \text{Formal Charge of Carbon} = 4 - \left(0 + \frac{1}{2} \times 8 \right) = 4 - 4 = 0

   \]

   The formal charge on carbon is 0.

  

   - Step 2: Each oxygen atom has 6 valence electrons. In \(CO_2\), each oxygen forms a double bond with carbon (4 bonding electrons) and has two lone pairs (4 electrons).

  

   \[

   \text{Formal Charge of Oxygen} = 6 - \left(4 + \frac{1}{2} \times 4 \right) = 6 - 6 = 0

   \]

   The formal charge on each oxygen atom is 0.

 

 

 

 Importance of Formal Charge Calculation

 

1. Determining the Most Stable Structure:

   - When multiple resonance structures are possible, the most stable structure is the one with the lowest formal charges on atoms, particularly minimizing charges on electronegative atoms.

  

   Example: 

   - In sulfur dioxide (SO\(_2\)), the resonance structure with a formal charge of 0 on sulfur and oxygen is more stable than one with non-zero charges.

 

2. Predicting Reactivity:

   - Formal charges help predict the reactivity of molecules by indicating which atoms have an excess or deficiency of electrons. Atoms with high formal charges are often sites of chemical reactivity.

 

3. Charge Distribution in Ions:

   - Formal charge calculations are essential for understanding charge distribution in polyatomic ions. For example, in nitrate ion (NO\(_3^-\)), the negative charge is delocalized over the oxygen atoms, which affects the ion's stability and reactivity.

 

 

 

 Examples of Charge Calculations in Common Ions

 

1. Sulfate Ion (\(SO_4^{2-}\)):

   - The sulfate ion has a total charge of -2, which comes from the formal charges on the sulfur and oxygen atoms. Using formal charge calculations, it can be shown that the negative charge is delocalized across the four oxygen atoms.

 

2. Phosphate Ion (\(PO_4^{3-}\)):

   - In the phosphate ion, the formal charge is distributed among the oxygen atoms, contributing to the overall charge of -3 for the ion.

 

 

 

 Conclusion

 

Charge calculation is a vital tool for understanding the electron distribution in molecules and ions, helping to predict molecular geometry, stability, and reactivity. The net charge determines the overall charge of an ion, while the formal charge helps identify electron density and potential sites of chemical reactivity.

Questions

Q 1. Identify the correct order of boiling points of the following compounds:\n(1) \(\mathrm{CH}_{3} \mathrm{CH}_{2} \mathrm{CH}_{2} \mathrm{CH}_{2} \mathrm{OH}\)\n(2) \(\mathrm{CH}_{3} \mathrm{CH}_{2} \mathrm{CH}_{2} \mathrm{CHO}\)\n(3) \(\mathrm{CH}_{3} \mathrm{CH}_{2} \mathrm{CH}_{2} \mathrm{COOH}\);

(A) \(\mathrm{a}>\mathrm{b}>\mathrm{c}\);

(B) \(c>a>b\);

(C) \(a>c>b\);

(D) \(c>b>a\);

Topics

Formal Charge

Lone Pair-Bond Pair Repulsion

Lone Pairs

Dipole Moment

Bond Angle

Electronegativity and Polarity

Bond Order and Stability

Hybridization

Molecular Shape

Ionic Bonding

Covalent and Sigma Bonds

Octet Rule

Resonance

Lattice Energy

Charge Calculation

Media