Question

Question. Determine the hybridization of the labelled atom in each species.

a.

b.

c.

Short answer

Answer

a. sp²

b.sp²

c.sp²

Step-by-step solution

Hybridization

The process of combining or overlapping atomic orbitals to form new orbitals called hybrid orbitals preferable for bond formation is known as “hybridization.”

The p-orbitals would overlap during the delocalization of the non-bonded electrons. This would affect the hybridization of the atom involved.

Predicting hybridization of radicals

a. The labeled C is surrounded by three groups, namely two atoms and one non-bonded electron pair such that the carbon is sp² hybridized.

sp² hybridized C atom

b. Since delocalization would stabilize the compound, the charge on oxygen can be delocalized through the overlap of the p-orbital. The oxygen atom is sp²hybridized.

sp² hybridized O atom

c. This is a three allyl system with two resonating structures. To delocalize the lone pair and make the system conjugated, the C atom must be sp² hybridized.

sp² hybridized C atom