MCAT Organic Chemistry Question 42: Answer and Explanation
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Question: 42
12. The s character of the carbon atom in HCN is:
- A. 25% s and 75% p.
- B. 50% s and 50% p.
- C. 33% s and 67% p.
- D. 75% s and 25% p.
Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The carbon bond in hydrogen cyanide (H–C≡N:) is triple-bonded, and because triple bonds require two unhybridized p-orbitals, the carbon must be sp-hybridized; sp-hybridized orbitals have 50% s character and 50% p character.