Term: binding energy
https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.BT07001

Definition:
The difference between the total energy of a molecular system and the sum of the energies of its isolated π- and σ-bonds. The value of binding energy depends upon the geometrical arrangement of the isolated subunits (molecules). According to another definition, the term to be subtracted from the total energy is the sum of the energies of the separate atoms in the corresponding valence states, which compose the molecule.

Related Terms:
1) valence (http://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.V06588).

Source: PAC, 1999, 71, 1919. 'Glossary of terms used in theoretical organic chemistry' on page 1926 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199971101919)

Citation: 'binding energy' in IUPAC Compendium of Chemical Terminology, 5th ed. International Union of Pure and Applied Chemistry; 2025. Online version 5.0.0, 2025. https://doi.org/10.1351/goldbook.BT07001

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