Asked in ETEA MDCAT 2013 2013Moderate

According to molecular orbital theory, which one of the following will indicate two unpaired electrons?

Correct answer: B. O2

  • A. N2
  • B. O2
  • C. F2
  • D. He22+

Explanation

The correct answer is O2. According to molecular orbital theory, O2 has a configuration with two unpaired electrons in the π* 2p molecular orbitals, making it paramagnetic. In contrast, N2 and F2 have all paired electrons, making them diamagnetic. He22+ is a hypothetical species and unlikely to have unpaired electrons.

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