Question

Give a reason for the sigma (σ) bond is stronger than the Pi (π) bond.

Answer 1

1. The strength of the bond depends on the extent of overlap of the orbitals. Greater the overlap, the stronger is the bond.
2. A sigma bond is formed by the coaxial overlap of the atomic orbitals which are oriented along the internuclear axis, hence the extent of overlap is maximum.
3. A pi bond is formed by the lateral overlap of the atomic orbitals which are oriented perpendicular to the internuclear axis, hence the extent of orbital overlapping in a sidewise manner is less.
   Hence, the sigma (σ) bond is stronger than the Pi (π) bond.