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

In \( \text{CO}_2 \), the central carbon atom forms two double bonds with oxygen atoms. Since there are two regions of electron density around the carbon atom, the hybridization of the carbon atom is \( sp^2 \). Thus, the correct hybridization of the central atom in \( \text{CO}_2 \) is \( sp^2 \), corresponding to option (2).