Multiple Choice
What is the hybridization of the central carbon atom in CO2, and how are the bonds labeled in the molecule?
12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Hybridization
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How many unhybridized orbitals does the beryllium atom possess in BeCl2?
A
2
B
3
C
1
D
0
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand the concept of hybridization: In BeCl2, beryllium forms two covalent bonds with chlorine atoms. To do this, beryllium undergoes hybridization to form sp hybrid orbitals.
Determine the type of hybridization: Beryllium in BeCl2 uses sp hybridization, which involves the mixing of one s orbital and one p orbital to form two equivalent sp hybrid orbitals.
Identify the number of hybridized orbitals: In sp hybridization, two orbitals (one s and one p) are hybridized to form two sp hybrid orbitals.
Calculate the number of unhybridized orbitals: Beryllium has a total of four orbitals in its valence shell (one 2s and three 2p orbitals). After sp hybridization, two orbitals are hybridized, leaving two unhybridized p orbitals.
Conclude the number of unhybridized orbitals: Therefore, beryllium in BeCl2 has two unhybridized p orbitals remaining.
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