The energy-level diagram in Figure 9.36 shows that the

Chapter 5, Problem 108AE

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The energy-level diagram in Figure 9.36 shows that the sideways overlap of a pair of p orbitals produces two molecular orbitals, one bonding and one antibonding. In ethylene there is a pair of electrons in the bonding 𝜋 orbital between the two carbons. Absorption of a photon of the appropriate wavelength can result in promotion of one of the bonding electrons from the 𝜋2p to the 𝜋*2p molecular orbital. (a) What would you expect this electronic transition to do to the carbon– carbon bond order in ethylene? (b) How does this relate to the fact that absorption of a photon of appropriate wavelength can cause ready rotation about the carbon–carbon bond, as described in the “Chemistry and Life” box and shown in Figure 9.30?

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