Question

Which of the following is the correct hybridization of the central atom in \( \text{CO}_2 \)?

• A. \( sp^3 \)
• B. \( sp^2 \)
• C. \( sp \)
• D. \( dsp^3 \)

Hint:

The hybridization of an atom is determined by the number of regions of electron density around it. For two regions, the hybridization is \( sp^2 \).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

The central carbon atom in \( \text{CO}_2 \) creates two double bonds with oxygen atoms. Due to two electron density regions surrounding the carbon, its hybridization is \( sp^2 \). Therefore, the central atom's hybridization in \( \text{CO}_2 \) is \( sp^2 \), aligning with option (2).