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Double bond

Definition

A double bond in organic chemistry is a chemical bond between two atoms involving four bonding electrons instead of the usual two. It results in stronger attraction and shorter distance between the bonded atoms compared to a single bond.

Analogy

Think of a double bond like a two-lane bridge connecting two sides of a river - it allows more traffic (electrons) to move across at once compared to a single-lane bridge (single bond), making the connection between the two sides (atoms) stronger and more efficient.

Related terms

sp2 Hybrid Orbitals: These are hybrid orbitals formed by the mixing of one s orbital and two p orbitals, creating three equivalent orbitals oriented at 120-degree angles, essential for forming double bonds.

Ethylene: A simple hydrocarbon with the formula C2H4, consisting of two carbon atoms connected by a double bond, used as a fundamental building block in organic chemistry.

Pi Bond: A type of covalent bond that arises from the sideways overlap of p-orbitals, present in all double and triple bonds alongside sigma bonds