Key Concepts

1. Summary of the important features of carbon hybridization

Type of hybrid No. of groups No. of sigma No. of pi Types of bonds Geometry of the
orbital attached to C bonds with C bonds with present C atom
atom C
sp3 4 4 0 Single bond tetrahedral
sp2 3 2 1 Double bond trigonal planar
sp 2 2 2 Triple bond linear
2. How can we explain the variations in the boiling points of ethane, ethylene, and
acetylene?

Ethane, ethene and acetylene respectively have sp 3, sp2 and sp hybrid

orbitals. When it comes to comparing the boiling points of these molecules, the
intermolecular forces called London Dispersion Forces are at work. These forces
are weaker than other forces and do not extend over long distances. Since sp
orbitals have shorter bond lengths than sp 2 and sp3 orbitals, molecules in the sp
orbital are closer to each other. The closer they are, the more electron densities
are; thus, the stronger the forces are. The stronger the forces are, the higher the
boiling point is.

3. How can we explain the variation in the melting points of ethane, ethylene, and
acetylene?

A strong attraction between molecules results in a higher melting point.

Since ethane has an sp3 orbital, the intermolecular forces are weaker; thus,
making ethene and acetylene to have higher melting points than ethane.

B. Drills
1. Determine the hybrid orbitals
i. A.
1. C1- sp2
2. C2 – sp2
3. C3 – sp3
4. C4 – sp
5. C5 - sp
ii. B
1. C1 – sp2
2. C2 – sp2
3. C3 – sp2
4. C4 – sp3
2. Sigma bonds and pi bonds
i. A
1. 8 sigma bonds
2. 3 pi bonds
ii. B
1. 4 sigma bonds
2. 2 pi bonds