The molecular orbital description for metal bonding is different from that for diatomic molecules in that __________

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In metal bonding, the orbitals are so close in energy that they overlap and form continuous bands, rather than distinct molecular orbitals as in diatomic molecules. Option A is incorrect because antibonding orbitals do exist in metal bonding, but they are often not occupied due to the overlapping of orbitals into bands. Option B is incorrect because quantum theory still applies to metals, but the description of bonding is different due to the continuous nature of the orbitals. Option D is incorrect because the increased number of electrons in metals does not necessarily result in stronger individual bonds, but rather contributes to the overall bonding behavior of the metal lattice.

The Molecular Orbital Description for Metal Bonding Is Different from That