Triple Bond

Q: What is the formula for Triple Bond?

The formula or notation for Triple Bond is: C≡C or C≡N; σ + 2π bonds; bond order = 3

C≡C or C≡N; σ + 2π bonds; bond order = 3

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Quick Reference

Formula / Notation	C≡C or C≡N; σ + 2π bonds; bond order = 3
Also Known As	Triple covalent bond, σ + 2π bond, three-electron-pair bond

What is Triple Bond?

A covalent bond formed by three pairs of shared electrons between two atoms: one sigma bond and two pi bonds. Triple bonds are shorter and stronger than double or single bonds. Alkynes (C≡C) and nitrogen gas (N≡N) contain triple bonds. Free rotation is not possible around triple bonds.

Formula & Notation

C≡C or C≡N; σ + 2π bonds; bond order = 3

Other Names / Synonyms: Triple covalent bond, σ + 2π bond, three-electron-pair bond

Properties & Characteristics

A triple bond consists of three shared pairs of electrons between two atoms: one sigma (σ) bond and two pi (π) bonds. It is the shortest and strongest type of covalent bond between the same pair of atoms. Triple bonds restrict rotation about the bond axis. Examples include N≡N in molecular nitrogen, H-C≡C-H (acetylene), and HCN.

Uses & Applications

Triple bonds are found in industrially important compounds: acetylene (used in welding), nitriles (used in synthesis), and molecular nitrogen (atmospheric component). Triple bond cleavage in N₂ is the key step in ammonia synthesis (Haber process). Carbon-nitrogen triple bonds are important in pharmaceutical synthesis.

Safety Information

Compounds with carbon-carbon triple bonds (alkynes) are often flammable and some are explosive under pressure. Acetylene can form explosive mixtures with air. Nitrile compounds may be toxic and some release hydrogen cyanide on decomposition.

Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.

Key Facts

Term Triple Bond

Formula C≡C or C≡N; σ + 2π bonds; bond order = 3

Index All "T" terms

Synonyms Triple covalent bond, σ + 2π bond, three-electron-pair bond

Frequently Asked Questions

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2,2,2-Trifluoroethanol C2H3F3O Tantalum Ta Tartaric acid C4H6O6 Tautomerism Technetium Tc Tellurium Te Tellurium dioxide O2Te Temperature T(K) = T(°C) + 273.15; 0 K = absolute zero Tennessine Ts Terbium Tb Terephthalic acid C8H6O4 Termolecular Reaction rate = k[A][B][C]

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Editorial standards: Chemical data is sourced from peer-reviewed literature, CAS Registry, NIST WebBook, and PubChem. Safety information reflects guidance from OSHA, ECHA, and IAEA. For educational purposes only — always consult official SDS documentation and qualified professionals before handling chemicals.