Chapter 24: Problem 125
When a methyl radical is formed from \(\mathrm{CH}_{3} \mathrm{Cl}\), select the correct statement: (1) bond angle of \(109^{\circ} 28\) ' is retained (2) number of sigma bonds is three (3) carbon undergoes geometric change from tetrahedral to planar (4) hybridization changes \(\mathrm{sp}^{3}\) to \(\mathrm{sp}^{2}\) (a) 2,3 and 4 (b) 1,3 and 4 (c) 2 and 4 (d) 3 and 4
Short Answer
Step by step solution
Identify the changes in hybridization
Determine the sigma bonds
Assess the structure's geometry
Select the correct statement
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Key Concepts
These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.
Hybridization
- Tetrahedral Configuration: In \(\text{CH}_3\text{Cl}\), carbon is initially \(\text{sp}^3\) hybridized. This means that one s orbital and three p orbitals mix to create four equivalent \(\text{sp}^3\) orbitals. These orbitals form a tetrahedral shape with bond angles of approximately \(109^\circ 28'\).
- Change to \(\text{sp}^2\) Hybridization: Upon the formation of the methyl radical, a chlorine atom and its associated electron pair are removed. This causes carbon to shift to \(\text{sp}^2\) hybridization. Here, one s orbital combines with two p orbitals, forming three hybrid orbitals that position themselves in a planar, trigonal arrangement.
- Significance in Reactions: Understanding changes in hybridization is crucial for predicting how molecules will react. \(\text{sp}^2\) hybridization indicates a higher reactivity due to the presence of an unhybridized p orbital, which can participate in forming \(\pi\)-bonds or in radical reactions.
Geometric Structure
- From Tetrahedral to Planar: Initially, the \(\text{CH}_3\text{Cl}\) molecule's carbon atom has a tetrahedral geometry due to its \(\text{sp}^3\) hybridization. This gives rise to a three-dimensional shape with bond angles of \(109^\circ 28'\).
- Effect of Hybridization Change: When a methyl radical is formed, the carbon atom switches to \(\text{sp}^2\) hybridization, resulting in a planar structure. This means the molecule lies flat, with bond angles around each hydrogen-carbon bond being approximately \(120^\circ\).
- Planar Structures: This planar configuration is often found in compounds where stability and specific reactive properties, such as resonance, are required.
Sigma Bonds
- Nature of Sigma Bonds: Sigma bonds are a result of the head-on overlap of atomic orbitals. This overlap can occur between s-s, s-p, or p-p orbitals, leading to formation of a strong bond along the internuclear axis.
- Three Sigma Bonds in a Methyl Radical: Upon the conversion from \(\text{CH}_3\text{Cl}\), there are still three hydrogen atoms bound to the carbon, each with a single sigma bond. These are the only \(\sigma\)-bonds present in the methyl radical structure, signifying direct overlap of orbitals.
- Properties and Role: Sigma bonds are responsible for the basic framework and stability of a molecule, permitting rotations in the molecular structure. They are extremely crucial in determining the physical and chemical properties of the compound.