Multiple Choice
In the context of organic chemistry, what is the key difference between the theories of gradualism and catastrophism?
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Intro to Organic Chemistry
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Which of the following statements about the hybridization of carbon in methane (CH4) is true?
A
Carbon in methane is sp2 hybridized.
B
Carbon in methane is sp hybridized.
C
Carbon in methane is not hybridized.
D
Carbon in methane is sp3 hybridized.
Verified step by step guidance1
Begin by understanding the concept of hybridization: Hybridization is the process of mixing atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals suitable for the pairing of electrons to form chemical bonds in molecules.
Identify the electronic configuration of carbon: Carbon has an atomic number of 6, with an electronic configuration of 1s² 2s² 2p².
Recognize the need for hybridization in methane: In CH₄, carbon forms four equivalent bonds with hydrogen atoms. To achieve this, carbon undergoes hybridization to form four equivalent sp³ hybrid orbitals.
Explain the sp³ hybridization: In sp³ hybridization, one 2s orbital and three 2p orbitals mix to form four equivalent sp³ hybrid orbitals, each containing one electron ready to form a bond.
Conclude with the geometry: The sp³ hybridization results in a tetrahedral geometry for methane, with bond angles of approximately 109.5°, allowing for the formation of four equivalent C-H bonds.
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