Hybridization - Problem 1

Description:

Problem − Give the hybridization states of each of the carbon atom in the given molecule.

A. H₂C = CH − CN

B. HC ≡ C − C ≡ CH

C. H₂C = C = C = CH₂

Solution −

• The hybridization states can be determined by looking at the number of σ − bonds and lone pair of electrons.

• sp hybridization state has 2 σ and 2π-bonds, while sp² has 3σ and 1π bonds, sp³ has 4σ − bonds.

• N in CN has 1σ bond and 1 lone pair of electrons. Nitrogen also requires 2 hybrid sp orbitals, one to accommodate the lone pair of electrons and 1 to form the σ − bonds with carbon.

• Hybridization states are given in the table below −