Electrons in Antibonding π* Molecular Orbitals

Question:
Total number of electrons present in antibonding π* molecular orbitals of O₂, O₂⁺ and O₂⁻ is ________.

Correct Answer: 6

Explanation (Molecular Orbital Theory)

Consider the electronic configuration of oxygen species using molecular orbital theory.

O₂:
In O₂, there are 2 electrons in antibonding π* orbitals.

O₂⁺:
Removal of one electron occurs from π* orbital → 1 electron in π*.

O₂⁻:
One extra electron enters π* orbital → 3 electrons in π*.

Total electrons in π* orbitals:
2 (O₂) + 1 (O₂⁺) + 3 (O₂⁻) = 6

Hence, the correct answer is 6.

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