Question

Each carbon atom in benzene is in which state of hybridization?

• A. $s{p}^3$
• B. $s{p}^2$
• C. $sp$
• D. $s^{3}p$

Answer 1

The correct option is B $s{p}^2$

Look at the structure of benzene.


Every carbon atom in the benzene ring has a double bond with a neighbouring carbon atom and a single bond with another carbon atom. It is also bonded to one hydrogen atom with a single bond.

So, each carbon atom has 3 sigma bonds and 1 pi bond. This is possible only if the carbon atom is $s{p}^2$ hybridized where we get 3 $s{p}^2$ hybrid orbitals to form 3 sigma bonds and 1 unhybridised p orbital to form a pi bond.

Another feature of $s{p}^2$ hybridisation is that it leads to a trigonal planar geometry which is also true in this case.