In sp2 hybridization, what fraction of s character is present?

In sp2 hybridization, what fraction of s character is present?

• A. 1/3
• B. 2/3
• C. 1/2
• D. 0

Answer: (A)

The concept tested is how s-character is distributed when forming sp2 hybrid orbitals. In sp2, one s orbital mixes with two p orbitals to create three equivalent hybrid orbitals. The s character is shared among these three hybrids, so each hybrid orbital contains one third of the s character (and two thirds p character). The geometry becomes trigonal planar with 120° bond angles, and the remaining p orbital stays unhybridized to participate in pi bonding. So the fraction of s character in an sp2 hybrid orbital is 1/3.

The concept tested is how s-character is distributed when forming sp2 hybrid orbitals. In sp2, one s orbital mixes with two p orbitals to create three equivalent hybrid orbitals. The s character is shared among these three hybrids, so each hybrid orbital contains one third of the s character (and two thirds p character). The geometry becomes trigonal planar with 120° bond angles, and the remaining p orbital stays unhybridized to participate in pi bonding. So the fraction of s character in an sp2 hybrid orbital is 1/3.