Einstein's relativity rules chemical bonds in heavy elements, new research shows
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Einstein's relativity smears sigma and pi bonds in heavy elements like bismuth.
Brown University chemists used photoelectron spectroscopy to show that triple bonds between carbon and bismuth do not follow the textbook sigma/pi separation. In heavy elements, electrons approach light speed, causing spin-orbit coupling that hybridizes the bond types. The result is a structure with one pi bond and two mixed sigma-pi bonds. The study, published in Science, may prompt textbook revisions as heavy elements like bismuth gain interest in solar cells and quantum computing.
What commenters are saying
Commenters expressed mixed feelings about chemistry education. Many found the rote memorization in introductory chemistry frustrating, noting that the underlying physics is often hand-waved. Several pointed out that the full explanation requires quantum mechanics and heavy math, which is deferred to upper-level physical chemistry. Some recommended Linus Pauling's textbooks for a more intuitive understanding. A few argued that the subject's empirical nature makes some memorization unavoidable.