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How does the molecular orbital diagram of N₂ differ from that of O₂?

N₂ (Nitrogen molecule)

  • Total electrons = 14
  • Orbital filling: all electrons get paired.
  • Bond order = 3 → triple bond
  • Magnetism: Diamagnetic (no unpaired electrons).

O₂ (Oxygen molecule)

  • Total electrons = 16
  • Orbital filling: two electrons remain unpaired in higher orbitals.
  • Bond order = 2 → double bond
  • Magnetism: Paramagnetic (because of unpaired electrons).

Key difference:

  • N₂ has a triple bond and is diamagnetic.
  • O₂ has a double bond and is paramagnetic.

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