According to molecular orbital theory, how many molecular orbitals are formed when the p atomic orbitals of two atoms combine?

• A. 2
• B. 4
• C. 3
• D. 6

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that each atom has three p atomic orbitals: \( p_x \), \( p_y \), and \( p_z \).
2. When two atoms combine, each of their p orbitals can interact with the corresponding p orbital on the other atom.
3. According to molecular orbital theory, each pair of atomic orbitals combines to form two molecular orbitals: one bonding and one antibonding orbital.
4. Since there are three pairs of p orbitals (\( p_x \) with \( p_x \), \( p_y \) with \( p_y \), and \( p_z \) with \( p_z \)), the total number of molecular orbitals formed is \( 3 \times 2 = 6 \).
5. Therefore, the combination of the p atomic orbitals from two atoms results in six molecular orbitals.