What is the hybridization of the carbon atom in acetylene (C2H2)?

What is the hybridization of the carbon atom in acetylene (C2H2)?

Correct Answer: sp

Step 1: Identify the molecular formula of acetylene, which is C2H2.
Step 2: Understand that each carbon atom in acetylene is bonded to one hydrogen atom and to the other carbon atom.
Step 3: Determine the number of bonds each carbon atom forms: one single bond with hydrogen and one triple bond with the other carbon atom.
Step 4: Recognize that a triple bond consists of one sigma bond and two pi bonds.
Step 5: Conclude that to form a triple bond, the carbon atom must use one s orbital and one p orbital, leading to sp hybridization.

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