Question

In \( \text{O}_2^- \), \( \text{O}_2 \), and \( \text{O}_2^{2-} \) molecular species, the total number of antibonding electrons respectively are:

• A. \( 7, 6, 8 \)
• B. \( 1, 0, 2 \)
• C. \( 6, 6, 6 \)
• D. \( 8, 6, 8 \)

Hint:

The number of antibonding electrons is determined by the specific molecular orbital filling in each species.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

The correct selection is Option 1, which indicates 7, 6, and 8 antibonding electrons, respectively.

The distribution is as follows:

• O₂^-: Contains 7 antibonding electrons.
• O₂: Contains 6 antibonding electrons.
• O₂^2-: Contains 8 antibonding electrons.