Question

Is OSO more stable than SOO?

Answer 1

SOO is less stable than OSO. Both OSO and SOO are two possible bonding form of sulphur dioxide,

SO_2.

In case of OSO form, both oxygen atoms bond with sulphur atom. The valancy of S atom is 4 and hence the structure is of the form O=S=O. Each O atom forms a double bond with S atom and hence the bondlength will be small with a bond order of 2. This imparts stability to the molecule.

In case of SOO, the bonding can be like S-O-O. The valancy of O atom is 2 and hence the central O willonly form 2 bonds i.e., a single bond with each O atom. Hence the bond length is more with a bond order of 1.

Comparing, we thus obtain OSO as the more stable form.