Question

what are the hybrid orbitals of the carbon atoms in the following molecule? check all that apply. h₃c - ch = ch₂ sp sp² sp³ none of the above

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze left - most carbon

The left - most carbon ($C$ in $H_3C-$) is bonded to four other atoms (three $H$ and one $C$). According to the VSEPR (Valence - Shell Electron - Pair Repulsion) theory and hybridization rules, when a carbon atom has four bonding pairs of electrons, it is $sp^3$ hybridized.

Step2: Analyze double - bonded carbons

The two double - bonded carbon atoms ($CH = CH_2$) are each bonded to three other atoms. When a carbon atom has three bonding pairs of electrons, it is $sp^2$ hybridized.

Answer:

$sp^2$, $sp^3$