What is the hybridization state of carbon and oxygen in carbonyl chloride (COCl₂), a trigonal planar molecule? A) no hybridization B) sp C) sp² D) sp³ E) sp³d

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In carbonyl chloride, the carbon atom is bonded to three other atoms (one oxygen and two chlorine atoms). Since the molecule has a trigonal planar shape, we know that the hybridization of carbon must be sp2. The oxygen atom is double-bonded to carbon and has two lone pairs of electrons, which means it also has a trigonal planar electron geometry. Therefore, the hybridization of oxygen must also be sp2. The correct answer is choice C, which suggests that the hybridization state of carbon and oxygen in carbonyl chloride is sp2 and sp2, respectively.

What Is the Hybridization State of Carbon and Oxygen in Carbonyl