Question

In CH_3COOH, what is the appropriate set of hybridization states for the two central atoms:

a) sp2, sp3
b) sp3, sp2
c) sp3, sp3
d) sp2, sp2

Answer 1

In CH3COOH, the two central atoms have sp3 and sp2 hybridization states respectively. The terminal carbon atom is sp3 hybridized and the central carbon atom is sp2 hybridized.

Step-by-step explanation:

In CH3COOH, the appropriate set of hybridization states for the two central atoms is sp3, sp2 (b) sp3 for the terminal carbon atom and sp2 for the central carbon atom. This can be determined by looking at the geometry and bonding in the molecule.

Each of the bonds in CH3COOH is formed by the overlap of a 2p orbital on carbon and a 2p orbital on oxygen. This leads to the sp3 hybridization for the terminal carbon atom and sp2 hybridization for the central carbon atom.