The molecule of benzene (\( \text{C}_6\text{H}_6 \)) consists of six carbon atoms arranged in a hexagonal ring. Each carbon atom in benzene is \( sp^2 \)-hybridized. Let's break down how many \( sp^2 \) hybrid orbitals are present in benzene:
Total number of \( sp^2 \) hybrid orbitals = Number of carbon atoms × \( sp^2 \) hybrid orbitals per carbon atom
Total number of \( sp^2 \) hybrid orbitals = \( 6 \times 3 = 18 \)
Thus, the number of \( sp^2 \) hybrid orbitals in a benzene molecule is 18. Therefore, the correct answer is 18.
Hybridisation and geometry of [Ni(CN)$_4$]$^{2-}$ are