The linear combination of atomic orbitals to form molecular orbitals takes place only when the combining atomic orbitals Choose the most appropriate from the options given below:
- B, C, D only
- A, B, C only
- B and D only
- A and C only
Answer
(4) A and C only
Solution
Conditions for LCAO:
(i) same or nearly the same energy ⇒ A is correct
(ii) same symmetry about the molecular axis ⇒ C is correct, D is wrong
(iii) maximum overlap ⇒ B (minimum overlap) is wrong
∴ A and C only
Answer: (4)