What is the hybridization of the carbon atoms in ethylene (C2H4)?

What is the hybridization of the carbon atoms in ethylene (C2H4)?

Correct Answer: sp2

Step 1: Identify the molecular formula of ethylene, which is C2H4.
Step 2: Determine the number of carbon atoms in ethylene. There are 2 carbon atoms.
Step 3: Understand that each carbon atom in ethylene forms 3 sigma bonds: 2 with hydrogen atoms and 1 with the other carbon atom.
Step 4: Recognize that there is a double bond between the two carbon atoms. A double bond consists of 1 sigma bond and 1 pi bond.
Step 5: Since each carbon atom forms 3 sigma bonds, it needs to use 3 orbitals for bonding.
Step 6: The hybridization that allows for 3 equivalent orbitals is sp2 hybridization.
Step 7: Conclude that the carbon atoms in ethylene (C2H4) are sp2 hybridized due to the presence of a double bond.

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