Question:

What is the ratio of σ and pi bonds in pyrophosphoric acid ?

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In polyatomic structures, count sigma and pi bonds systematically by identifying single and double bonds.

Updated On: Mar 20, 2025
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Solution and Explanation

The structure of pyrophosphoric acid (H4P2O7) consists of an O=P-O-P=O backbone with terminal hydroxyl groups (OH).

Step 1: Counting Sigma (\( \sigma \)) Bonds: 

  • Each single bond (P-O and O-H) is a sigma bond.
  • Each double bond (P=O) contains 1 sigma bond.

Total sigma bonds: 12 (8 single P-O and O-H bonds + 4 sigma components from P=O bonds).

Step 2: Counting Pi (\( \pi \)) Bonds:

  • Each double bond (P=O) contains 1 pi bond.

Total pi bonds: 2 (from P=O bonds).

Step 3: Ratio of Sigma to Pi Bonds:

\[ \frac{\sigma}{\pi} = \frac{12}{2} = 6 \]

Conclusion:

The ratio of sigma to pi bonds in pyrophosphoric acid is 6:1.

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