OPSC OAS 2021 PrelimsScience & TechnologyQuestion 4
Solved previous year question from the OPSC OAS/OCS 2021 Preliminary Examination (General Studies), with the official answer key and a detailed explanation.
Question
In ethylene which of the following shape is acquired by the molecule?
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Answer & Explanation
Correct answer: (C) Coplanar triangular
- In ethylene, each carbon atom is sp² hybridized, forming a flat structure where atoms lie in the same plane, creating a trigonal planar (coplanar triangular) shape.
Comparison of Molecular Geometries
| Hybridisation | Shape | Bond Angle | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| sp | Linear | 180° | Acetylene (C2H2), CO2, BeCl2 |
| sp2 | Trigonal Planar (Coplanar triangular) | 120° | Ethylene (C2H4), BF3, BCl3 |
| sp3 | Tetrahedral | 109.5° | Methane (CH4), Ethane (C2H6), CCl4 |
| sp3d | Trigonal Bipyramidal | 90° and 120° | PCl5 |
| sp3d2 | Octahedral | 90° | SF6 |
