Question

Compare and contrast the MO model with the L.E model. When is each useful?

Short answer

Bonds are created by the overlap of atomic orbitals in the Local Electron (LE) Model. Electrons are redistributed throughout the molecule and placed into new orbitals called molecular orbitals in Molecular Orbital (MO) Theory. Various atoms of a molecule have different orbitals.

The MO model could explain resonance and hybridization.

The LE model could predict the structure of molecules.

Step-by-step solution

LE Model

Bonds are created by a pair of electrons shared by two atoms in the localized electron bonding concept.Because an orbital can carry two electrons, we commonly refer to them as bonding pairs or lone pairs. The electron pair that is shared is referred to as a bonding pair. A lone pair of electrons is a pair of electrons that are not shared.

The LE model could predict the structure of molecules.

MO model

Electrons in a molecule are not ascribed to particular chemical interactions between atoms in molecular orbital theory but are instead viewed as moving under the influence of the atomic nuclei in the entire molecule. The spatial and energetic features of electrons are described by quantum mechanics as molecular orbitals, which surround two or more atoms in a molecule and contain valence electrons between them.

The MO model could explain resonance and hybridization.