Diborane, B2H6, has the structure shown. a. Using the point group of the molecule,...

Diborane, B₂H₆, has the structure shown.

a. Using the point group of the molecule, create a representation using the 1 s orbitals on the hydrogens as a basis. Reduce this representation, and sketch group orbitals matching each of the irreducible representations. (Suggestion: Treat the bridging and terminal hydrogens separately.)

b. Calculate and display the molecular orbitals. Compare the software-generated images with the group orbital sketches from part a, and explain how hydrogen can form “bridges” between two B atoms. (This type of bonding is discussed in Chapter 8 .)