Question

Geometry around how many carbon atoms is tetrahedral in the given structure?

• A. 3
• B. 4
• C. 2
• D. 5

Answer 1

The correct option is A 3

Number of carbons with tetrahedral geometry in the given compound

A carbon atom with four $\sigma$ −bonds is $s{p}^3$ hybridised and the geometry will be tetrahedral.

Steric number is the sum of number of atoms or groups and lone pairs around a central atom.

The steric number determines molecular geometry. The steric number is calculated using the following formula:

Steric Number (S.N) = number of lone pairs on the central atom + number of sigma bonds

All the mentioned carbon atoms form 4 sigma bonds and do not have any lone pair of electrons.

So, S.N. for each carbon 𝑎𝑡𝑜𝑚 = 0+4 = 4 and hybridization is $s{p}^3$

Hence, there are total three carbons with tetrahedral geometry.

Therefore, the correct answer is option (C).