Question

Identify the type of overlap present in H₂. Explain diagrammatically.

Answer 1

s–s σ overlap:

1. The overlap between two half-filled s orbitals of two different atoms containing unpaired electrons with opposite spins is called s–s σ overlap.
   e.g. Formation of H₂ molecule by s–s σ overlap:
   Hydrogen atom (Z = 1) has electronic configuration: 1s¹.
   The 1s¹ orbitals of two hydrogen atoms overlap along the internuclear axis to form a σ bond between the atoms in the H₂ molecule.
2. Diagram: