Which of the following molecules is not an example of sp hybridization

Biology
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which of the following molecules is not an example of sp hybridization

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Which of the following molecules is not an example of sp hybridization?

To determine which of these molecules does not exhibit sp hybridization, it’s essential to understand what sp hybridization entails. In a molecule, sp hybridization occurs when one s orbital and one p orbital combine to form two equivalent sp hybrid orbitals. This results in a linear arrangement with an angle of approximately 180 degrees between the bonded atoms.

Examples of typical molecules that exhibit sp hybridization include:

  • Acetylene (C₂H₂): The carbon atoms in acetylene are sp hybridized, which gives the molecule a linear structure.
  • Diatomic carbon (C₂): Each carbon atom in diatomic carbon is also sp hybridized, displaying a linear arrangement.

To better identify sp hybridization, we should evaluate a few common molecular structures:

sp Hybridization Characteristics:

  • Linear Geometry: The molecule will have a linear shape with a bond angle of 180 degrees.
  • Trigonal Planar Electron Geometry: Taking into consideration some other structures, any deviation from this linear arrangement or evidence of more than two atoms bonded to the central atom suggests a different type of hybridization.

Here are examples of other hybridizations that may be confused with sp hybridization:

  • sp² Hybridization: Involves one s and two p orbitals combining. Typical examples are found in compounds like ethylene (C₂H₄). This results in a trigonal planar arrangement.
  • sp³ Hybridization: Involves one s and three p orbitals combining, leading to a tetrahedral shape. Water (H₂O) and methane (CH₄) are typical examples.

Identifying Molecules:

Given options commonly presented in exams or exercises, here are typical examples where such determination is needed:

  1. Carbon Dioxide (CO₂): The carbon atom in CO₂ is sp hybridized due to its linear shape as it forms double bonds with two oxygen atoms.

  2. Ethyne (C₂H₂): Similar to acetylene, C₂H₂ is linear, confirming sp hybridization.

  3. Methane (CH₄): Exhibits sp³ hybridization as carbon forms four equivalent bonds in a tetrahedral shape, not linear and hence not sp hybridized.

  4. Boron Trifluoride (BF₃): Has a trigonal planar shape, which is indicative of sp² hybridization, not linear as would be expected for sp hybridization.

Based on the above descriptions, the molecule methane (CH₄) is not an example of sp hybridization. Instead, it exhibits sp³ hybridization due to its tetrahedral geometry. If you have specific molecules in mind and need further assistance, please provide the list, and I can help clarify further.