Question

which molecule is an example of sp³ hybridization? a. phosphorus pentachloride (pcl₅) b. ethene (c₂h₄) c. acetylene (c₂h₂) d. methane (ch₄)

Explanation:

In methane ($CH_4$), the carbon atom forms 4 sigma bonds with hydrogen atoms. The carbon atom's hybridization is $sp^3$ as one s - orbital and three p - orbitals mix to form four equivalent $sp^3$ hybrid orbitals. Phosphorus pentachloride ($PCl_5$) has $sp^3d$ hybridization, ethene ($C_2H_4$) has $sp^2$ hybridization and acetylene ($C_2H_2$) has $sp$ hybridization.

Answer:

D. Methane ($CH_4$)