What is a sigma bond in chemistry?

1 Answer
Simon Moore
Nov 16, 2016

The strongest type of covalent bond.

Explanation:

Sigma bonds form via the "head on" overlapping of atomic orbitals of the component atoms, so #s+s, p_z+p_z, s+p_z and d_z^2+d_z^2# (z being the bond axis).

Single bonds are typically sigma only, whilst double/triple bonds contain a mixture of sigma and pi bonding. But sigma is the only type that is "head to head" direct overlapping of electron orbitals, which makes them stronger.

Related questions
See all questions in Molecular Orbitals and Hybridizations
Impact of this question
2107 views around the world
You can reuse this answer
Creative Commons License