In which of the following molecules is the central atom sp2 hybridized?

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Question: In which of the following molecules is the central atom sp2 hybridized?

Options:

Correct Answer: C2H4

Solution:

C2H4 has a double bond between the carbon atoms, indicating sp2 hybridization.

In which of the following molecules is the central atom sp2 hybridized?

In which of the following molecules is the central atom sp2 hybridized?

Step 1: Identify the central atom in the molecule C2H4 (ethylene).
Step 2: Count the number of bonds around the central atom. In C2H4, each carbon atom is bonded to two hydrogen atoms and has a double bond with the other carbon atom.
Step 3: Determine the type of bonds. The double bond consists of one sigma bond and one pi bond.
Step 4: Recognize that sp2 hybridization occurs when there are three regions of electron density (like two single bonds and one double bond).
Step 5: Conclude that since each carbon in C2H4 has three regions of electron density, it is sp2 hybridized.

Hybridization – The concept of hybridization involves the mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals, which can explain the geometry and bonding of molecules.
Molecular Geometry – Understanding the geometry of molecules based on the hybridization of the central atom helps predict molecular shape and bond angles.
Double Bonds and Hybridization – The presence of double bonds in a molecule often indicates sp2 hybridization for the atoms involved in the double bond.