Multiple Choice
In benzene, how many systems are present, and how many electrons are found in each system?
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1. A Review of General Chemistry
Sigma and Pi Bonds
Multiple Choice
In the molecule (ethene), how many sigma bonds are present?
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Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the molecular structure of ethene (C\_2H\_4). Ethene consists of two carbon atoms double bonded to each other, and each carbon is bonded to two hydrogen atoms.
Recall that in ethene, each carbon atom is \( sp^2 \) hybridized. This means each carbon forms three sigma (\( \sigma \)) bonds using its three \( sp^2 \) hybrid orbitals, and one pi (\( \pi \)) bond using the unhybridized p orbital.
Count the sigma bonds between the atoms: each carbon forms two sigma bonds with hydrogen atoms, so for two carbons, that accounts for \( 2 \times 2 = 4 \) C-H sigma bonds.
There is also one sigma bond between the two carbon atoms (the sigma component of the double bond).
Add the sigma bonds together: \( 4 \) C-H sigma bonds plus \( 1 \) C-C sigma bond equals \( 5 \) sigma bonds in total. However, since the question asks specifically for the number of \( sp^2 \) sigma bonds, consider only those formed by the \( sp^2 \) orbitals, which are the same five sigma bonds counted here.
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