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LIVE LAB 01 • CHEMICAL BONDING

VBT overlapping

Choose two s, p or d orbitals and an internuclear axis, then test whether their symmetry and phase produce σ, π, δ, mixed or no overlap.

Foundation to AdvancedCore • AdvancedInteractive 3D overlap analyserPersonal study

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Watch guided tour · 2:46Follow along on YouTube, then try the lab.

VBT overlapping — actual simulation with its model and controls

ACTUAL LAB PREVIEW

QUICK START

Start with the concept.

Choose Orbital A and Orbital B, or load a σ, π or δ example preset.
Choose the X, Y or Z internuclear axis and press Run Simulation.
Drag to rotate, wheel to zoom and inspect the selected orbitals at bonding distance.
Use the optional result overlays to emphasise the σ core, π sandwich or degenerating overlap only when applicable.

COMPLETE CONCEPT GUIDE

Valence bond theory: orbital overlap, sigma and pi bonds

Valence bond theory connects a covalent bond with overlap between suitable atomic orbitals. Use the lab to change the orbitals and bond axis, then compare their symmetry before predicting the overlap type.

Head-on and sideways overlap

Sigma overlap is symmetric around the internuclear axis. Pi overlap has a nodal plane containing that axis; delta overlap has two. The classification depends on the orientation of the orbitals relative to the bond axis.

Orbital phase is not electric charge

The colours of orbital lobes represent the sign of a wavefunction. Same-phase overlap can contribute constructively, whereas opposite-phase overlap can contribute destructively. A negative lobe does not mean a negatively charged region.

A controlled comparison

Select two p orbitals and keep them fixed while changing the internuclear axis. Compare an end-on arrangement with a side-on arrangement. Symmetry can make the net overlap vanish even when parts of the displayed shapes appear to meet.

VBT OVERLAPPING FAQ

Questions students ask while mastering this concept.

What is the difference between sigma and pi overlap?

Sigma overlap is head-on and symmetric around the bond axis; pi overlap is side-on and has a nodal plane containing that axis. A conventional double bond contains one sigma bond and one pi bond.

Does any overlap between orbital pictures create a bond?

No. Symmetry, phase, orbital energies and electron occupancy matter. A geometric intersection alone does not establish a stabilising chemical bond.

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STUDENT DISCUSSION

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VBT overlapping

Start with the concept.

Valence bond theory: orbital overlap, sigma and pi bonds

Head-on and sideways overlap

Orbital phase is not electric charge

A controlled comparison

Questions students ask while mastering this concept.

Connect this lab with nearby concepts.

Hybridization 3D Lab

Schrödinger 3D Orbital & Node Lab

Back Bonding 3D Lab

Find this concept in your chemistry course

Questions & observations