Why is there a correlation between s character of bonds and bond length? and PJ Bond @ Fest 11 10.27.12-18

Why is there a correlation between s character of bonds and bond length?

I understand obviously that there is a energy difference between say sp2 and sp3 bonds, but how does that translate to differences in bond length? (ie why are bonds of higher s character lower in length).


Bond best answer:

Answer by Stephen McNeil
In part because a lower energy hybrid orbital (sp lower than sp2 lower than sp3) will lead to lower energy electrons in the resulting bond -- the the electrons in the hybrid experience a higher Zeff and a lower energy, they will still do so once the bond is formed; lower energy bonding electrons means a stronger bond; stronger bonds are shorter.

There are other aspects to a more complete explanation, but within the context of the valence bond model in which you framed the question, that one makes sense.

Bond

PJ Bond @ Fest 11 10.27.12-18


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PJ Bond plays Fest 11 at Civic Media Center, Gainesville, FL, October 27, 2012.

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