According to molecular orbital theory, which of the following is true with respect to `LI_(2)+"and"Li_(2)-?`

Options

A. Both are stable
B. `Li_(2)^(+)` is stable and `Li_(2)^(-)` is unstable
C. `Li_(2)^(+)` is unstable and `Li_(2)^(-)` is stable
D. Both are unstable

Answer

A

Explanation

Molecular electronic configuration according to MOT:
`Li_(2)^(+):sigma_(1s)^(2) sigma_(1s)^(***2) sigma_(2s)^(1)`, Bond order `=1//2 , " " Li_(2)^(-):sigma_(1s)^(2) sigma_(1s)^(***2) sigma_(2s)^(2)sigma_(2s)^(***1)`, Bond order `=1//2`