Single bond vs. Multiple bond
It is known that many of the period 2 non-metal elements can form many double bonds and even triple bonds with other elements. However, as we go down the periodic table, we start to see that the elements are less able to make multiple bonds and usually only single bonds.
Why is that so?
Pick the best reason.
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1 solution
The formation of multiple bonds involves the formation of pi bond, which is the side-on overlap of orbitals. Compared to the head-on overlap of orbitals, like in sigma bonds, the pi bond is much more distance-sensitive as it is a side-on overlap, as shown in the image below. As atomic radius increases, the pi bonds are much weaker as the overlap of the orbitals become less effective. Thus, for those heavier elements, the formation of multiple bonds is not favourable.