For a central atom that is ${\mathrm{sp}}^2$ hybridized, what is the maximum number of other atoms it can directly bond to?

• A. $3$
• B. $2$
• C. $4$
• D. $5$

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the hybridization of the central atom determines the number of hybrid orbitals available for bonding.
2. Recall that an sp² hybridized atom forms three hybrid orbitals by mixing one s orbital and two p orbitals.
3. Each of these three sp² hybrid orbitals can form a sigma bond with another atom, allowing direct bonding.
4. The remaining unhybridized p orbital in sp² hybridization is typically involved in pi bonding, not sigma bonding to additional atoms.
5. Therefore, the maximum number of other atoms the sp² hybridized central atom can directly bond to corresponds to the number of sp² hybrid orbitals, which is three.