Question

Indicate the hybridization of each interior atom in C₂H₂ (whose skeletal structure is HCCH).

1st C (sp): 2nd C (sp)

Answer 1

The interior carbon atoms in C₂H₂ have sp hybridization.

Step-by-step explanation:

In the molecule C₂H₂, which has a skeletal structure of HCCH, each carbon atom has sp hybridization.

An sp hybridized carbon makes two sigma (σ) bonds using its sp orbitals that are 180° from each other, resulting in a linear geometry. The remaining two p orbitals on each carbon atom form two pi (π) bonds perpendicular to each other and around the sigma bond, also resulting in a linear geometry.

Therefore, both interior carbon atoms in C₂H₂ have sp hybridization.