Self-study exercises
1. Based on symmetry arguments, why does the 2pz orbital on
boron remain non-bonding in BH3 but is involved in a bonding
interaction in BF3?
2. Explain why LGO(4) in Figure 4.22 can become involved in
BF bonding in BF3, but is treated as a non-bonding MO in
Figure 4.23.