In a single molecule of allene (), how many carbon atoms strictly exhibit hybridization? — Chemical Bonding Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The structure of allene is $CH_2=C=CH_2$. The two terminal carbon atoms are bonded to 3 atoms (2 H, 1 C) with no lone pairs, yielding a steric number of 3 and $sp^2$ hybridization. The central carbon is double-bonded to 2 terminal carbons ($S.N. = 2$), yielding $sp$ hybridization. Thus, exactly 2 carbons are $sp^2$ hybridized.