Question

The formation of hydrogen molecule takes place when

• A. the energy state is minimum
• B. two hydrogen atomic orbitals undergo large extent of overlapping
• C. Both (a) and (b)
• D. None of the above

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

In the formation of hydrogen molecule, there is a minimum energy state when two hydrogen atoms are so near that their atomic orbitals undergo partial interpenetration.
This partial merging of atomic orbitals is called overlapping of atomic orbitals which results in the pairing of electrons. The extent of overlap decides the strength of a covalent bond. In general, greater the overlap, stronger is the bond formed between two atoms.