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Multiple Choice
What is the hybridization of the indicated oxygen atom?
A
sp3
B
sp2
C
sp3 in this resonance contributor, but sp2 in the other resonance contributor.
D
sp
Verified step by step guidance
1
Identify the oxygen atom in question, which is the one indicated by the arrow in the structure.
Count the number of sigma bonds and lone pairs around the indicated oxygen atom. This oxygen is bonded to a hydrogen atom and has two lone pairs.
Determine the steric number, which is the sum of the number of sigma bonds and lone pairs. For this oxygen, there is 1 sigma bond and 2 lone pairs, giving a steric number of 3.
Use the steric number to determine the hybridization. A steric number of 3 corresponds to sp2 hybridization.
Consider resonance structures if applicable. In this case, the resonance structure does not change the hybridization of the indicated oxygen atom, which remains sp2.