What is the molecular geometry and hybridization of (z)-1,2-difluoroethylene and (e)-1,2-difluoroethylene?
Would it be sp2 and trigonal planar for both?
yes
To determine the molecular geometry and hybridization of molecules, we follow a step-by-step process:
Step 1: Draw the Lewis structure.
For (Z)-1,2-difluoroethylene:
```
F F
\ /
C=C
```
For (E)-1,2-difluoroethylene:
```
F F
\ /
C=C
```
Step 2: Count the number of regions with electron density around the central atom.
In both cases, the central carbon atom has four regions of electron density: the double bond, two sigma bonds to the fluorine atoms, and one lone pair.
Step 3: Determine the hybridization.
Since the carbon atom has four regions of electron density, it undergoes sp3 hybridization, with a hybridization state of sp3.
Step 4: Determine the geometry based on the number of regions of electron density.
For (Z)-1,2-difluoroethylene and (E)-1,2-difluoroethylene, both have a trigonal planar geometry because all four regions of electron density are bonded (no lone pairs).
So, the correct answer is:
- The hybridization of the central carbon atom in (Z)-1,2-difluoroethylene and (E)-1,2-difluoroethylene is sp3.
- The molecular geometry of (Z)-1,2-difluoroethylene and (E)-1,2-difluoroethylene is trigonal planar.