Question

Consider the following statements (I) A sigma $ (\sigma ) $ bond is formed when two $ s- $ orbitals overlap (II) A pi $ (\pi ) $ bond is formed when two $ p- $ orbitals axially overlap (III) A $ \sigma $ bond is weaker than $ \pi - $ bond Which of the above statements is/are correct?

• A. II and III
• B. I and II
• C. I alone
• D. II alone

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

The bonds formed by end to end overlapping of orbitals are called a bond. Two orbitals overlap along their axis maximum overlapping is possible and hence the bond formed (ie, sigma) is strong. The bonds formed by the side ways (lateral) overlapping of orbitals are known as pi ( $ \pi $ ) bonds. The lateral overlapping is only partical, the bond formed is weak.