Question

Depict the shape of formula ${\mathrm{C}}_2{\mathrm{H}}_4$(ethene) on the basis of hybridization?

Answer 1

Hybridization:

• Hybridization is a process by which atomic orbitals of nearby similar energy levels overlap to form a new hybridized orbital.
• This mixing and forming of new orbitals are needed to form bonds between the atoms.
• There are no specific criteria for orbitals to participate in hybridization.
• Both partially and fully filled orbitals can undergo hybridization.
  

Hybridization in ethylene molecule:

• Ethylene is an unsaturated organic compound with a chemical formula ${\mathrm{C}}_2{\mathrm{H}}_4$.
• It has one double bond and is the simplest member of the alkene class of hydrocarbons.
• During the formation of CH₂=CH₂ the electronic configuration of carbon in its ground state (1s²2s² 2px¹ 2py¹) will change to an excited state and change to 1s² 2s¹ 2px¹2py¹ 2pz¹
• In the excited state, since carbon needs electrons to form bonds one of the electrons from 2s² orbital will be shifted to the empty 2pz orbital to give 4 unpaired electrons.
• The shape of the ethene molecule is linear and hybridization is sp²