Triple Bond
| 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
Other Names / Synonyms: Triple covalent bond, σ + 2π bond, three-electron-pair bond
Properties & Characteristics
Uses & Applications
Safety Information
Always consult the SDS/MSDS before handling any chemical. This information is for educational purposes only.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
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 pharma…
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.
The formula or notation for Triple Bond is: C≡C or C≡N; σ + 2π bonds; bond order = 3