Question

Why can't ${\mathrm{CH}}_4$ use square planar geometry?

Answer 1

${\mathrm{CH}}_4$ Geometry:

• Carbon in the ${\mathrm{CH}}_4$ molecule is $s{p}^{\mathit{3}}$ hybridized, giving it a tetrahedral structure.
• The geometry of ${\mathrm{CH}}_4$is shown below:

• There is a lack of d – orbitals in Carbon, and square planar requires $ds{p}^{\mathit{2}}$ hybridization, which is not achievable.
• Thus, ${\mathrm{CH}}_4$ molecule does not have square planer geometry.