Page 6 Flashcards
What bonds make up the double bond in an alkene?
A: A double bond in an alkene consists of a sigma (σ) bond and a pi (π) bond.
How is the sigma (σ) bond in an alkene’s double bond formed?
A: The σ bond is formed by the end-to-end overlap of two sp² hybrid orbitals.
How is the pi (π) bond in an alkene’s double bond formed?
A: The π bond is formed by the side-by-side overlap of two 2p orbitals.
In what plane does the sigma (σ) bond of an alkene lie?
A: The σ bond lies in the plane of the molecule.
In what orientation does the pi (π) bond of an alkene exist?
A: The π bond lies perpendicular to the plane of the molecule.
What happens to the p orbitals during the formation of the π bond in an alkene?
A: The unhybridized 2p orbitals on adjacent carbons overlap side-by-side, forming the π bond.
Which bond, σ or π, is formed first in a double bond during elimination?
A: The σ bond is already present in the single bond, and the π bond is formed during elimination.
Why is the π bond in an alkene weaker than the σ bond?
A: The π bond results from side-by-side orbital overlap, which is less effective than the end-to-end overlap that forms the σ bond.
What type of hybridization do the carbons in a double bond of an alkene exhibit?
A: The carbons in a double bond exhibit sp² hybridization.
How does the presence of a π bond in a double bond affect the rotation of the molecule?
A: The π bond restricts rotation around the double bond, making the structure planar.
