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How do triple bonds differ from double bonds in organic compounds?
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organic compound
The structures of organic compounds can be depicted in condensed, expanded, and three-dimensional structural formulas.
In organic chemistry, double and triple bonds are types of multiple bonds that differ in their electron sharing, geometry, and bonding composition:
- Electron Sharing: A double bond is formed when two atoms share two pairs of electrons (four electrons total), whereas a triple bond results from the sharing of three pairs of electrons (six electrons total).123
- Bonding Composition: According to valence bond theory, a double bond consists of one sigma bond and one pi bond. A triple bond consists of one sigma bond and two pi bonds.4
- Molecular Geometry: The atoms involved in a double bond (such as in ethene) lie in a single plane. In contrast, atoms connected by a triple bond (such as in acetylene) are arranged in a straight line.23
Both bond types are sites of high reactivity, typically undergoing addition reactions where other atoms or groups bond to the carbons involved in the multiple bond.5