Question

Consider a carbon atom that is sp hybridized. Indicate how many of each orbital exist on this carbon atom by sorting each orbital type. Consider the outer valence only.

Options include: sp orbitals, p orbitals, s orbitals

Answer 1

Step-by-step explanation:

A carbon atom that is sp hybridized has a combination of one s orbital and one p orbital to form two hybrid orbitals, sp orbitals. These sp orbitals are typically of equal energy and both hold electrons in the outer valence shell of the carbon atom.

So for a carbon atom that is sp hybridized:

sp orbitals: 2

p orbitals: 0

s orbitals: 0

In conclusion, a carbon atom that is sp hybridized has 2 sp orbitals and 0 p orbitals or s orbitals in the outer valence shell.