Question:medium

The structure and hybridisation of $Si(CH_3)_4$ is

Updated On: Jun 25, 2026
  • $octahedral, sp^3d$
  • $tetrahedral, sp^3$
  • bent, sp
  • $trigonal, sp^2$
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The Correct Option is B

Solution and Explanation

To determine the structure and hybridization of $Si(CH_3)_4$, we will analyze the bonding and electron arrangement around the silicon atom.

  1. Valency and Bonds:
    • Silicon (Si) belongs to group 14 of the periodic table and has four valence electrons.
    • In $Si(CH_3)_4$, each methyl group $(CH_3)$ is bonded to the central Si atom through a single covalent bond.
    • This implies that there are four sigma bonds around silicon.
  2. Hybridization:
    • With four sigma bonds around, the silicon atom utilizes its four sp3 hybrid orbitals.
  3. Geometry:
    • The sp3 hybridization of silicon results in a tetrahedral geometry.
    • In a tetrahedral geometry, the bond angles are approximately 109.5°.
  4. Conclusion:
    • Therefore, the molecule $Si(CH_3)_4$ has a tetrahedral shape and sp3 hybridization.

Thus, the correct answer is $tetrahedral, sp^3$.

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