Question

The percentage of p-character in the orbitals forming P-P bonds in $P_4$ is:

• A. $25$
• B. $33$
• C. $50$
• D. $75$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $75$

The percentage of p-character in the orbitals of the molecule is 75%.

Explanation: To calculate the hybridization, we should know the number of bond pairs and lone pairs per element.

From the structure (attached), it is visible that

Number of bond pairs per P - atom $=3$

Number of lone pairs per P - atom $=1$

Number of orbitals $=$ Number of bond pairs $+$ number of lone pairs

Number of orbitals $=3+1=4$

If the number of orbitals is 4, then the hybridization will have 75% p-character as 1 s and 3 p orbitals are involved in hybridization.

Hence, option (D) is correct.