The molecule with the smallest rotational constant (in the microwave s...
The rotational constant (B) of a molecule is inversely proportional to its moment of inertia (I), which in turn is dependent on the mass and shape of the molecule. Therefore, the molecule with the smallest rotational constant would be the one with the largest moment of inertia, or the heaviest and/or most symmetrical molecule.
(a) N2 has a linear structure and a relatively small moment of inertia, so it would have a larger rotational constant than the other molecules.
(b) CH4 has a tetrahedral structure and a larger moment of inertia than N2, but it is still relatively small compared to the other molecules.
(c) H2O has a bent structure and a larger moment of inertia than CH4, but it is still not as heavy or symmetrical as the last molecule.
(d) C2H6 has a more complex structure with multiple bonds and different types of atoms, leading to a larger moment of inertia than the previous molecules.
Therefore, the molecule with the smallest rotational constant among the given options is (a) N2.
The molecule with the smallest rotational constant (in the microwave s...
B is inversely proportional to reduced mass. Among the given options Cl-C has the highest reduced mass hence rotational constant B will be the least.
B=h/8π²μR²c