Chemistry - CHEMICAL BONDING Question with Solution | TestHub
In which of the following valence orbital is NOT required for dimer formation.
Options:
Answer:
Solution:
The question asks which of the given species does NOT require a valence orbital for dimer formation.
A. BH₃ (Borane): Borane is electron deficient with an empty p-orbital. It dimerizes to B₂H₆ (diborane) by forming 3-center-2-electron bonds, which involves the empty p-orbital of boron.
B. NO₂ (Nitrogen dioxide): NO₂ is a radical with an unpaired electron in a valence orbital. It dimerizes to N₂O₄ by forming a covalent bond between the nitrogen atoms, utilizing the unpaired electrons in their valence orbitals.
C. CH₃COOH (Acetic acid): Acetic acid forms dimers through hydrogen bonding between the carboxylic acid groups. This process involves intermolecular forces and does not require the use of additional valence orbitals for covalent bond formation between the molecules.
D. CH₃ (Methyl radical): The methyl radical has an unpaired electron in a valence orbital. It dimerizes to C₂H₆ (ethane) by forming a covalent bond between the carbon atoms, utilizing the unpaired electrons in their valence orbitals.
Therefore, CH₃COOH does not require a valence orbital for dimer formation, as it uses hydrogen bonding.
The final answer is C