Covalent Bond Directionality: Explained

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In summary, covalent bonds are directional due to the orbital overlap and can only occur in specific directions to create constructive interference. This is still true even when two s-orbitals overlap, as they can still point from one atom to the other and have a distinct longitudinal axis and transversal plane. This can be observed in molecular hydrogen and other non-ionic biatomic bonds involving s-orbitals.
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photon79
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covalent diectional??

Covalent bond is directional because it is due to the orbital overlap and orbitals can overlap only in certain directions to give constructive interference. (This is true I hope! comments pls!) .
My question is when two s-orbitals (from two atoms) overlap how can it be directional because s-orbitals have spherical symmetries and have no certain directions??
 
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  • #2
Well of course it's still directional. It points from one atom to the other one.
 
  • #3
I'm agree. In molecular hydrogen, bond has an oval shape. It is possible to distinguish a symmetrical longitudinal axis and a transversal plan. Both of them include the origin of symmetry. You can also recognize it in all other non-ionic biatomical bonds, involving even now s-orbitals.
 

Related to Covalent Bond Directionality: Explained

What is a covalent bond?

A covalent bond is a type of chemical bond where two atoms share a pair of electrons in order to achieve a more stable electron configuration.

What determines the directionality of a covalent bond?

The directionality of a covalent bond is determined by the location of the bonded atoms and the orientation of their orbitals.

What is the significance of covalent bond directionality?

The directionality of a covalent bond affects the overall shape and structure of molecules, as well as their physical and chemical properties.

How does covalent bond directionality differ from ionic bond directionality?

In a covalent bond, the directionality is determined by the sharing of electrons between two atoms, while in an ionic bond, the directionality is determined by the attraction between positively and negatively charged ions.

Can covalent bond directionality be affected by external factors?

Yes, external factors such as temperature, pressure, and intermolecular forces can influence the directionality of covalent bonds in a molecule.

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