Question

what is the hybridization of the central atom in the methane (ch₄) molecule?

Explanation:

Step1: Identify central atom

In $CH_4$, carbon is the central atom.

Step2: Determine number of electron - groups

Carbon has 4 valence electrons and forms 4 single bonds with 4 hydrogen atoms. So, the number of electron - groups around the carbon atom is 4 (no lone pairs).

Step3: Find hybridization

When the number of electron - groups around a central atom is 4, the hybridization is $sp^3$.

Answer:

$sp^3$