What is the accepted hybridization state and resultant molecular geometry of the positively charged — GOC and Organic Chemistry Basics Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

The central carbon in a classical carbocation (carbenium ion) is bonded to three atoms and has zero lone pairs. Its steric number is 3, resulting strictly in $sp^2$ hybridization and a flat, trigonal planar geometry with an empty p-orbital.