Multiple Choice
Which of the following molecules contains sp hybridized orbitals?
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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
2
B
6
C
3
D
4
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 4 regions of electron density.
Recall that the number of hybrid orbitals formed corresponds to the number of electron density regions around the central atom, as hybrid orbitals accommodate these bonding or lone pair regions.
Since there are 4 regions of electron density, the carbon atom undergoes sp^3 hybridization, which produces 4 hybrid orbitals.
Conclude that the number of hybrid orbitals formed around the central carbon atom in CCl_4 is 4.
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