What knowledge is outdated or incorrect in high school chemistry?

There is some outdated or incorrect knowledge in high school chemistry that may need to be corrected as a result of advances in scientific research and updated experimental data. Some common examples are listed below.

1. Valence bond theory

In the past, we often used valence bond theory to describe the nature and properties of chemical bonds. However, with the advancement of science and technology, we found that in some cases, valence bond theory does not explain the nature of chemical bond well. For example, the valence bond theory does not well explain the molecular orbital configuration of a singlet hydrogen molecule.

2. The electron cloud model

In high school chemistry, we usually use the electron cloud model to describe the distribution of electrons in atoms, however, this model does not explain the spectroscopic properties of atoms and the mechanism of chemical reactions well. In recent years, scientists have discovered that the electron distribution in atoms and molecules is dynamically changing, and the electron cloud model does not describe this dynamic change well.

3. Charge transfer theory in redox reactions

In high school chemistry, we often use charge transfer theory to explain redox reactions. However, the charge transfer theory does not describe well the electron transfer process in some redox reactions. In practice, we need to use more accurate and complex theories to explain these reactions.

4. Molecular Orbital Theory

In high school chemistry, we usually use molecular orbital theory to describe the electronic structure and chemical bonding properties of molecules. However, molecular orbital theory does not describe the spectral properties and reaction mechanisms of some molecules well. In practical applications, we need to use more accurate and complex theories to explain these phenomena.

Overall, there is some outdated or wrong knowledge in high school chemistry. With the development of science and technology and the updating of experimental data, we need to constantly revise and update this knowledge to better understand chemical phenomena and advance science.