Question

Which of the following statements is true about ethene?

• A. Both carbon atoms are $s{p}^2$ hybridized and the molecule is planar
• B. Both carbon atoms are $s{p}^2$ hybridized and all bond angles are approximately ${109.5}^{\circ }$
• C. One carbon atom is sp hybridized while the other is $s{p}^2$
• D. Both carbon atoms are $s{p}^3$ hybridized and all bond angles are approximately ${109.5}^{\circ }$
• E. Both carbon atoms are sp hybridized and the molecule is planar

Answer 1

The correct option is A Both carbon atoms are $s{p}^2$ hybridized and the molecule is planar

In ethene, the carbon atoms are sp² hybridized. Two sp² hybrids bond with the hydrogen atoms, and the other forms a sigma bond with the other carbon atom. The p-orbitals that are unused by the carbon atoms in the hybridization overlap to form the C=C.