Multiple Choice
Which statement best describes the difference in bonding between carbon atoms in diamond and graphite?
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12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Molecular Geometry
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Which of the following best describes the shape of the 2p atomic orbitals?
A
Tetrahedral
B
Planar triangle
C
Dumbbell-shaped
D
Spherical
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that atomic orbitals describe the regions in space where there is a high probability of finding an electron around the nucleus.
Understand that the 2p orbitals are the set of three orbitals (2p_x, 2p_y, 2p_z) that have one angular node and are oriented along the x, y, and z axes respectively.
Recognize that the shape of each 2p orbital is characterized by two lobes on opposite sides of the nucleus, resembling a dumbbell.
Compare the given options: tetrahedral shape is typical for sp3 hybrid orbitals, planar triangle corresponds to trigonal planar geometry, and spherical shape describes s orbitals, not p orbitals.
Conclude that the best description of the 2p atomic orbitals is 'Dumbbell-shaped' because of their two-lobed structure aligned along coordinate axes.
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