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JAMB Chemistry 1987 Question 40

Question 40

Atomic Structure

Inspite of the electronic configuration, 1s22s22p2, carbon is tetravalent because

  1. A.the electrons in both 2s and 2p orbitals have equal energy
  2. B.the electrons in both 2s and 2p orbitals are equivalent
  3. C.both the 2s and 2p orbitals hydrodize
  4. D.the six orbitals hybridize to four.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (both the 2s and 2p orbitals hydrodize)

Explanation

One 2s electron is promoted to 2p and the 2s and three 2p orbitals mix (hybridise) into four equal sp3 orbitals, each with one unpaired electron, so carbon forms four bonds.