The following diagrams represent the electron population ofmolecular orbitals for different substances. What diagram correspondsto magnesium oxide, germanium, and tin? (LO 12.8)
(a) Diagram 1 = tin, diagram 2 = magnesium oxide,diagram 3 = germanium(b) Diagram 1 = germanium, diagram 2 = magnesiumoxide, diagram 3 = tin(c) Diagram 1 = germanium, diagram 2 = tin, diagram3 = magnesium oxide(d) Diagram 1 = magnesium oxide, diagram 2 = tin,diagram 3 = germanium

Verified step by step guidance

Identify the electron configuration of magnesium oxide, germanium, and tin.

Analyze the molecular orbital diagrams provided in the image.

Compare the electron configurations of the substances with the electron populations in the molecular orbitals.

Match the electron configurations to the appropriate diagrams based on the number of electrons and their arrangement in the molecular orbitals.

Select the correct option (a, b, c, or d) that corresponds to the identified diagrams for magnesium oxide, germanium, and tin.

Verified video answer for a similar problem:

This video solution was recommended by our tutors as helpful for the problem above.

Video duration:

Was this helpful?

Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Molecular Orbitals

Molecular orbitals are formed by the combination of atomic orbitals when atoms bond together. They can be classified as bonding, antibonding, or non-bonding, depending on the energy levels and electron configurations. Understanding how electrons populate these orbitals is crucial for predicting the chemical properties and reactivity of molecules.

Electron Configuration

Electron configuration describes the distribution of electrons in an atom or molecule's orbitals. It follows specific rules, such as the Aufbau principle, Pauli exclusion principle, and Hund's rule, which dictate how electrons fill available energy levels. This configuration is essential for determining the stability and bonding characteristics of elements like magnesium oxide, germanium, and tin.

Periodic Trends

Periodic trends refer to the predictable patterns in elemental properties observed in the periodic table, such as electronegativity, atomic radius, and ionization energy. These trends arise from the arrangement of electrons and the effective nuclear charge experienced by them. Recognizing these trends helps in understanding the behavior of elements in bonding and their corresponding molecular orbital diagrams.

Recommended video:

Guided course