Question

Explain the structure of CH₄ by using VBT .

Answer 1

According to valence bond theory, those atoms which contain paired electron can also participate in bonding if the electrons are made unpaired.

In carbon there are two unpaired electrons. During bonding one electron from 2s jumps to 2p sub-shell forming four unpaired electrons.

Therefore carbon shows tetra valency and forms CH₄ compound.

₆C: 1s² 2s² 2p² ------------ Ground state

₆C: 1s2 2s¹ 2p³ ------------- Excited state