The bond length varies depending on the hybridization of the bonded carbon atoms. Which of the follo — Chemical Bonding Chemistry Question
Question
The $C-C$ bond length varies depending on the hybridization of the bonded carbon atoms. Which of the following represents the correct descending order of $C-C$ single bond lengths?
Answer: A
💡 Solution & Explanation
As the percentage of s-character in the hybrid orbital increases ($sp^3 = 25\%$, $sp^2 = 33.3\%$, $sp = 50\%$), the orbital becomes smaller and is held closer to the nucleus. This stronger nuclear attraction results in a shorter and stronger bond. Hence, the $sp^3-sp^3$ bond (1.54 Å) is longer than $sp^2-sp^2$ (1.51 Å) and $sp-sp$ (1.37 Å).
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