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Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements is true about the hybridization of carbon in ethene (C2H4)?
A
The carbon atoms in ethene are sp hybridized.
B
The carbon atoms in ethene are sp3 hybridized.
C
The carbon atoms in ethene are sp2 hybridized.
D
The carbon atoms in ethene have no hybridization.
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the molecular structure of ethene (C2H4). Ethene consists of two carbon atoms double-bonded to each other, with each carbon atom also bonded to two hydrogen atoms.
Understand the concept of hybridization. Hybridization involves the mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals suitable for the pairing of electrons to form chemical bonds.
Determine the type of hybridization for carbon atoms in ethene. In ethene, each carbon atom forms three sigma bonds (two with hydrogen atoms and one with the other carbon atom) and one pi bond (with the other carbon atom).
Recognize that forming three sigma bonds requires three hybrid orbitals. The carbon atoms in ethene use one s orbital and two p orbitals to form three sp2 hybrid orbitals, leaving one p orbital to form the pi bond.
Conclude that the carbon atoms in ethene are sp2 hybridized, as they form three sp2 hybrid orbitals for sigma bonding and use the remaining p orbital for the pi bond.