Number of Banana Bonds in B5H9

The molecule B5H9, also known as pentaborane, consists of five boron atoms (B) and nine hydrogen atoms (H). In order to determine the number of banana bonds present in this molecule, we need to understand what a banana bond is and how it forms in boron compounds.

What is a Banana Bond?

A banana bond is a type of covalent bond that occurs between three atoms in a molecule. It is characterized by a bent or curved shape, resembling the shape of a banana. Banana bonds are commonly observed in boron compounds, where the boron atom forms a three-center, two-electron bond.

Formation of Banana Bonds in B5H9

In the case of B5H9, the boron atoms are arranged in a cluster or cage-like structure, with hydrogen atoms attached. The boron atoms in the cluster are bonded together through banana bonds, resulting in a stable molecule.

Understanding the Structure of B5H9

The structure of B5H9 can be represented as follows:

H
|
H - B - B - H
/ | |
H B B - H
/ |
H B - H

In this structure, each boron atom is bonded to two other boron atoms and two hydrogen atoms. The curved lines indicate the presence of banana bonds.

Counting the Banana Bonds

To determine the number of banana bonds in B5H9, we count the number of three-center, two-electron bonds formed by the boron atoms. In this case, each boron atom forms one banana bond, as it is bonded to two other boron atoms. Since there are five boron atoms in B5H9, the number of banana bonds is equal to the number of boron atoms, which is 5.

Therefore, the correct answer is '4', which represents the number of banana bonds present in B5H9.

Conclusion

In summary, B5H9 contains four banana bonds. These banana bonds form between the boron atoms in the molecule, creating a stable structure. It is important to understand the concept of banana bonds and their formation in boron compounds in order to accurately determine the number of banana bonds in a given molecule.