Molecular orbital explorer
See σ and π bonding patterns emerge from atomic orbitals.
Live model
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Water
H2O
Module 13 of 13
Description of this simulation
Water (H2O): Molecular orbital explorer — Two O–H σ bonds. Two lone pairs compress the H–O–H angle and leave a strong net dipole.
Live result
Two O–H σ bonds
Two lone pairs compress the H–O–H angle and leave a strong net dipole.
Molecule at a glance
- Geometry
- Bent
- Symmetry
- C₂v
- Polarity
- Polar
- Bond angle
- 104.5°
What this model shows — and what it simplifies
The orbital summary counts the characteristic sigma and pi bonding framework. Sigma density lies on the internuclear axis; pi density lies above and below it.
Where do we see this in real life?
Molecular orbitals explain oxygen magnetism, ultraviolet absorption and why rotation around a double bond is restricted.