What are some examples of antibonding orbitals?

1 Answer
Aug 15, 2014

Examples of antibonding orbitals are σ and π orbitals.

Here is a σ* orbital involving two s orbitals.

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Here is a σ* orbital involving two p orbitals.

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Here's a π*orbital involving two p orbitals.

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In each case the antibonding orbital has less electron density between the nuclei. Also, it is at a higher energy level than its bonding counterpart.