Molecular orbitals

Molecular orbitals are regions in a molecule where electrons are likely to be found. They form when atomic orbitals from different atoms combine during chemical bonding. Think of them as shared spaces where electrons can move freely between atoms, helping to hold the molecule together. These orbitals can be bonding (which stabilize the molecule) or antibonding (which can weaken it). Understanding molecular orbitals helps explain the properties, stability, and reactivity of molecules, forming a key part of chemistry and materials science.