The valence bond theory is a model that attempts to explain chemical bonding by considering that overlapping atomic orbitals create bonds, where electrons are shared between atoms.
Think of valence bond theory like building a bridge. Just as two sides of a river need to connect and overlap to form a sturdy bridge, atomic orbitals must overlap to form strong chemical bonds.
Covalent Bonding: This is when pairs of electrons are shared by atoms, which is what valence bond theory primarily explains.
Sigma Bonds (σ): These are covalent bonds formed from direct overlap between atomic orbitals leading to electron sharing on the same axis as the bond.
Pi Bonds (π): These are covalent bonds formed by sideways overlapping of atomic orbitals with electron sharing above and below the bond axis.
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