Which of the following statements about carbon in organic functional groups is false?

• A. Carbon can form double and triple bonds with other carbon atoms.
• B. Carbon can form up to four covalent bonds with other atoms.
• C. Carbon is present in all organic functional groups.
• D. Carbon atoms in organic molecules are always ${\mathrm{sp}}^3$ hybridized.

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Review the hybridization states of carbon atoms in organic molecules. Carbon can be sp3, sp2, or sp hybridized depending on the bonding environment.
2. Recall that sp3 hybridization corresponds to carbon atoms forming four single bonds (tetrahedral geometry).
3. Understand that sp2 hybridization occurs when carbon forms a double bond (trigonal planar geometry), and sp hybridization occurs with a triple bond (linear geometry).
4. Analyze the statement: 'Carbon atoms in organic molecules are always sp3 hybridized.' Since carbon can form double and triple bonds, it can also be sp2 or sp hybridized, so this statement is false.
5. Confirm that the other statements are true: carbon can form double and triple bonds, can form up to four covalent bonds, and is present in all organic functional groups.