question_answer

The arrangement of hydrogen atoms around carbon in the methane molecule is

A)  Triangular     

B)  Square planar

C)  Tetrahedral    

D)  Hexagonal

Correct Answer: C

Solution :

In methane the central atom, carbon is in a state of \[s{{p}^{3}}\]hybridization. Four \[s{{p}^{3}}\] hybrid orbitals around the central atom are directed tetrahedrally in a bid to be at maximum possible distance from each other. These four tetrahedrally inclined orbitals overlap with s-orbitals of four H-atom. The four \[C-H\] bonds are mutually inclined at an angle of\[{{109}^{o}}28'\]. Tetrahedral shape of methane molecule