QuestionMO theory / bond order
Which one of the following exhibits highest bond order?
- (a) O₂
- (b) O₂⁻
- (c) O₂²⁻
- (d) O₂⁺
Answer: (d) O₂⁺
BO = (Nb − Na)/2. O₂⁺ (15 e⁻) 2.5; O₂ 2.0; O₂⁻ 1.5; O₂²⁻ 1.0. Highest = O₂⁺ → (d). Trick: removing an antibonding π* electron raises BO.