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How many sp hybrid orbitals are in selenocysteine?

A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4

1 Answer

2 votes

Final answer:

Selenocysteine, like cysteine, is sp³d hybridized and therefore has 4 sp hybrid orbitals.

Step-by-step explanation:

Selenocysteine is an amino acid that contains an seleno group (-SeH) instead of the sulfur group (-SH) found in cysteine. Since selenium is in the same group as sulfur in the periodic table, it has similar hybridization properties. Sulfur in cysteine is sp³d hybridized, meaning it forms four sp³d hybrid orbitals for bonding. Similarly, selenium in selenocysteine will also be sp³d hybridized. Therefore, the correct answer is D. 4.

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