According to Molecular Orbital Theory (MOT), what causes the orbital to shift to a higher energy level than the and orbitals in , , and molecules?

Question

According to Molecular Orbital Theory (MOT), what causes the $\sigma 2p_z$ orbital to shift to a higher energy level than the $\pi 2p_x$ and $\pi 2p_y$ orbitals in $N_2$, $C_2$, and $B_2$ molecules?

Prashant Kotian · Accepted Answer

Correct answer: B. In atoms up to Nitrogen (total ), the 2s and 2p energy levels are close enough to interact (s-p mixing). This interaction pushes the bonding orbital up in energy, placing it above the degenerate orbitals.

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