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JAMB Chemistry 2004 Question 35

Question 35

Atomic Structure

Carbon is tetravalent because

  1. A.the electrons in both the 2s and 2p orbitals are equivalent
  2. B.the electrons in all the orbitals of carbon are equivalent
  3. C.the 2s and 2p atomic orbitals hybridize
  4. D.all the atomic orbitals of carbon hybridize
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (the 2s and 2p atomic orbitals hybridize)

Explanation

One 2s electron is promoted and the 2s and three 2p orbitals mix (sp3 hybridisation), giving four equivalent half-filled orbitals that form four bonds.