Why are pi bonds delocalized?

1 Answer
Ernest Z.
Apr 27, 2017

π Bonds are delocalized because their elections are not confined to a single atom.

Explanation:

For example, consider the π bond in ethylene.

ibchem.com

Before the #"p"# orbitals overlap, the #"p"# electrons are confined to (or "localized" on) each carbon atom.

However, the electrons in the π bond are free to roam over both carbon atoms.

That is, the electrons in the π bond are "delocalized".

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