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Ch.9 - Molecular Geometry and Bonding Theories
Chapter 9, Problem 80d

If we assume that the energy-level diagrams for homonuclear diatomic molecules shown in Figure 9.43 can be applied to heteronuclear diatomic molecules and ions, predict the bond order and magnetic behavior of (d) ClF.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Bond Order

Bond order is a measure of the number of chemical bonds between a pair of atoms. It is calculated as the difference between the number of bonding and antibonding electrons divided by two. A higher bond order indicates a stronger bond and greater stability of the molecule. For diatomic molecules, bond order can help predict the bond length and strength.
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Molecular Orbital Theory

Molecular Orbital Theory describes the behavior of electrons in molecules using molecular orbitals, which are formed by the combination of atomic orbitals. Electrons occupy these orbitals according to the Aufbau principle, and the arrangement of electrons in bonding and antibonding orbitals determines the stability and properties of the molecule. This theory is essential for predicting the magnetic behavior of molecules.
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Magnetic Behavior

Magnetic behavior in molecules is determined by the presence of unpaired electrons in molecular orbitals. If a molecule has unpaired electrons, it exhibits paramagnetism, meaning it is attracted to magnetic fields. Conversely, if all electrons are paired, the molecule is diamagnetic and is not attracted to magnetic fields. Understanding the electron configuration of ClF is crucial for predicting its magnetic properties.
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