Chapter 21, Problem 3E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The bond angle and geometry of a carbon atom which forms four single bonds is to be described.

Concept introduction:

Bond angle is defined as the angle between two bonded pairs or two bonds in a molecule. The geometry of a molecule represents a three-dimensional arrangement of atoms present in the molecule. Atomic orbitals mixed to form new hybrid orbital of equal energy. The geometry and bond angle of carbon compounds is determined from the hybridization of the carbon atom. The table to identify the bond angle and geometry of the molecule from hybridization is as follows:

$\begin{array}{ccc}\text{Hybridization}& \text{Bond angle}& \text{Geometry}\\ s{p}^3& 109.5°& \text{Tetrahedral}\\ s{p}^2& 120°& \text{Trigonal planar}\\ sp& 180°& \text{Linear}\end{array}$