Textbook Question
What is the hybridization of carbon in each of the following molecules?
(a)
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1. A Review of General Chemistry
Hybridization
5:52 minutesProblem 8g,h,i
Textbook Question
What orbitals are used to form the carbon–carbon s bond between the highlighted carbons?
g. 
h. 
i. 
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Analyze the bonding in each structure. In organic molecules, sigma (σ) bonds are formed by the overlap of orbitals. The type of orbitals involved depends on the hybridization of the atoms forming the bond.
Step 2: For structure (i), the highlighted carbons are part of a double bond. Double bonds consist of one sigma bond and one pi bond. The sigma bond is formed by the overlap of sp² hybrid orbitals from each carbon atom.
Step 3: For structure (ii), the highlighted carbons are part of a triple bond. Triple bonds consist of one sigma bond and two pi bonds. The sigma bond is formed by the overlap of sp hybrid orbitals from each carbon atom.
Step 4: For structure (iii), the highlighted carbons are part of a double bond. Similar to structure (i), the sigma bond is formed by the overlap of sp² hybrid orbitals from each carbon atom.
Step 5: Summarize the orbital interactions: (i) sp²-sp² overlap for the sigma bond, (ii) sp-sp overlap for the sigma bond, and (iii) sp²-sp² overlap for the sigma bond.
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Video duration:
5mKey Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Hybridization
Hybridization is the concept of mixing atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals that can accommodate bonding. In carbon, the most common hybridizations are sp3, sp2, and sp, which correspond to single, double, and triple bonds, respectively. Understanding hybridization is crucial for predicting the geometry and bond angles in molecules.
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Sigma (σ) Bonds
Sigma bonds are the first bonds formed between two atoms and are characterized by the head-on overlap of orbitals. In carbon–carbon bonds, σ bonds can be formed by the overlap of sp3, sp2, or sp hybrid orbitals. Recognizing the type of σ bond is essential for understanding molecular structure and reactivity.
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Bonding Orbitals
Bonding orbitals are regions in a molecule where the probability of finding electrons is high, leading to the formation of chemical bonds. In the context of carbon–carbon bonds, the specific orbitals involved (such as sp3, sp2, or sp) determine the bond's strength and characteristics. Identifying these orbitals is key to analyzing molecular interactions.
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