Sigma Bonding Electron density lies between the nuclei. A bond may be formed by s-s,p-p,s-p,or hybridized orbital overlaps. The bonding molecular orbital (MO)is lower in energy than the original atomic orbitals. The antibonding MO is higher in energy than the atomic orbitals. Chapter 2 8 Sigma Bonding • Electron density lies between the nuclei. • A bond may be formed by s—s, p—p, s—p, or hybridized orbital overlaps. • The bonding molecular orbital (MO) is lower in energy than the original atomic orbitals. • The antibonding MO is higher in energy than the atomic orbitals. Chapter 2 8