Sigma v. Pi

[Hannah Faris 1C]

Can someone explain the difference between a sigma and pi bond?

Thanks!!

[505211599]

A sigma bond is a basic covalent bond whereas a public bond whereas a pi bond is a covalent bond between 2 perpendicular orbitals.

[Elena Saab 4A]

Additionally, a sigma bond is a direct overlap over the nuclear axis, whereas a pi bond is an overlap above/below that axis.

[Carlos De La Torre 2L]

A sigma bond has increased electron probability between nuclei whereas a pi bond has a nodal plane between nuclei making it higher energy than a sigma bond.

[Grace Kim 1J]

Another key note to keep in mind is that sigma bonds are stronger than pi bonds. This is because the atomic orbitals forming sigma bonds overlap to a greater extent compared to the orbitals forming pi bonds.

Here is a link of an image comparing sigma bonds and pi bonds.

https://qph.fs.quoracdn.net/main-qimg-a356d285ef6c1d906935ed88802adfac-c

[Kayla Vo 1B]

In addition it is also good to know that a sigma bond can exist without a pi bond, but a pi bond cannot exist without a sigma bond.

[lukezhang2C]

Sigma bonds result from overlapping end-end atomic orbitals while pi bonds are overlapping side to side in a perpendicular plane.