MCAT Organic Chemistry Question 34: Answer and Explanation

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Question: 34

4. The hybridizations of the carbon and nitrogen atoms in CN^- are:

A. sp³ and sp³, respectively.
B. sp³ and sp, respectively.
C. sp and sp³, respectively.
D. sp and sp, respectively.

Correct Answer: D

Explanation:

The carbon and nitrogen atoms are connected by a triple bond in CN^– (:C≡N:^–). A triple-bonded atom is sp hybridized; one s-orbital hybridizes with one p-orbital to form two sp-hybridized orbitals. The two remaining unhybridized p-orbitals take part in the formation of two π bonds.

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