Question:

Which orbital overlap produces a \(\sigma\) bond in HCl?

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Hydrogen contributes a 1s orbital and chlorine contributes a half-filled 3p orbital.
Updated On: Nov 12, 2026
  • s\(-\)s
  • s\(-\)p
  • p\(-\)p
  • p\(-\)d
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

Step 1: Understanding the Concept
A sigma bond forms by head-on overlap of half-filled orbitals along the bond axis.

Step 2: Orbitals in HCl
Hydrogen has one electron in its 1s orbital.
Chlorine has the configuration \([\text{Ne}]3s^{2}3p^{5}\), with one half-filled 3p orbital.

Step 3: Conclusion
The 1s orbital of H overlaps with the 3p orbital of Cl, so the bond is an s-p sigma bond.

Final Answer:
The sigma bond in HCl is formed by s-p overlap. \[ \boxed{\text{(B) }\text{s}-\text{p}} \]
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