Q. According to MO theory which of the following lists ranks the nitrogen species in terms of increasing bond order?
A) N₂²⁻ < N₂⁻ < N₂
B) N₂ < N₂²⁻ < N₂⁻
C) N₂⁻ < N₂²⁻ < N₂
D) N₂⁻ < N₂ < N₂²⁻
Explanation
[Solution from source] N₂ (14 electrons) has bond order 3. Each extra electron enters an antibonding π* orbital and lowers the bond order by ½: N₂⁻ = 2.5, N₂²⁻ = 2. Increasing order: N₂²⁻ < N₂⁻ < N₂. Answer (1).
Reviewed by Dr. Abubacker
Physics Educator & NEET/JEE Specialist
Ph.D. in Physics with 19+ years of teaching experience.