Qualitative molecular orbital theory suited for the high school student

Abstract

We introduce and discuss a pedagogical approach to molecular orbital theory which, devoid of any mathematics beyond simple arithmetic on experimental data, is suitable as an introduction to chemical bonding concepts as a complement to Lewis theory in high-school chemistry. Examples are discussed that highlight the reasoning that could be imparted to students. This exercise may also give rise to discussions about scientific theories and “truth.” Notably, within the realm of our qualitative theory, we conclude that HF is a double-bonded diatomic.