Absolutely Small, Chapter 13: What Holds Atoms Together, Diatomic Molecules

The discussion of bonding that holds atoms together is extended beyond the hydrogen molecule to molecules made from bigger atoms, such as nitrogen and oxygen atoms. However, the discussion is restricted to molecules with only two atoms. A more general discussion of molecular orbitals and different types of bonds that hold atoms together are presented. It is shown that interesting properties of diatomic molecules (molecules with only two atoms) can be understood using simple molecular orbital energy level diagrams.