QQuestionChemistry
QuestionChemistry
The hybridization state of the charged carbon in a carbocation is:
A) sp^4
B) sp^3
C) sp^2
D) sp
E) s
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Answer
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Step 1:
The hybridization state of a carbon atom is determined by the number of atoms or groups of atoms bonded to it and the charge on the carbon. In a carbocation, there is a positive charge on the carbon, which means it has lost one electron and is now short one electron in its valence shell.
Step 2:
To achieve a stable electron configuration, the carbon will undergo hybridization to spread the positive charge over multiple bonds. In a carbocation, the carbon is bonded to three other atoms or groups of atoms, so it will undergo sp^2 hybridization.
Step 3:
In sp^2 hybridization, one s orbital and two p orbitals combine to form three sp^2 hybrid orbitals. These hybrid orbitals are arranged in a trigonal planar geometry, with bond angles of approximately 120 degrees. The remaining p orbital is not involved in hybridization and is perpendicular to the plane of the sp^2 hybrid orbitals.
Step 4:
The hybridization state of the charged carbon in a carbocation is therefore:
Final Answer
Explanation: The charged carbon in a carbocation undergoes sp^2 hybridization, resulting in a trigonal planar geometry with bond angles of approximately 120 degrees. This hybridization state allows the carbon to spread the positive charge over multiple bonds, making it more stable.
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