Textbook Question
Indicate whether each statement is true or false. (a) p orbitals can only make σ or σ* molecular orbitals.
12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Hybridization
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In the molecule CCl_4, how many hybrid orbitals are formed around the central carbon atom?
A
One
B
Two
C
Three
D
Four
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom in the molecule CCl_4, which is carbon (C).
Determine the number of regions of electron density (bonding or lone pairs) around the central carbon atom. In CCl_4, carbon forms four single bonds with four chlorine atoms, so there are four bonding regions.
Recall that the number of hybrid orbitals formed corresponds to the number of electron density regions around the central atom.
Since there are four bonding regions, carbon undergoes sp^3 hybridization, which involves mixing one s orbital and three p orbitals to form four equivalent sp^3 hybrid orbitals.
Conclude that the number of hybrid orbitals formed around the central carbon atom in CCl_4 is four.
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