The local molecular geometry and the hybridization around each carbon atom in benzene (C₆H₆ with a hexagonal ring structure) is ________ A)square planar and sp. B)trigonal planar and sp. C)tetrahedral and sp³. D)trigonal planar and sp². E)T-shaped and sp².

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Each carbon atom in benzene is bonded to two other carbon atoms and one hydrogen atom, resulting in a trigonal planar geometry. The hybridization of each carbon atom is sp2, since it has three regions of electron density (two bonded atoms and one lone pair). Therefore, choice D is the best answer as it correctly describes the local molecular geometry and hybridization around each carbon atom in benzene.

The Local Molecular Geometry and the Hybridization Around Each Carbon