What Does ABO Stand For?

ABO stands for Antibonding Bond Orbital

ABO, or Antibonding Bond Orbital, refers to a molecular orbital that results from the combination of atomic orbitals in a way that leads to a decrease in electron density between the nuclei of two bonded atoms. This orbital is characterized by a nodal surface between the nuclei, indicating a region where electron density is reduced. ABOs typically have higher energy than bonding orbitals and contribute to the instability of a molecule when occupied by electrons. The presence of electrons in antibonding orbitals can weaken or disrupt the bond between atoms.

Added on 14th April 2008 | Last edited on 16th June 2025 | Edit Acronym

Other Meanings for ABO