Question

The hybridization of Carbon in Diamond . Graphite and Fullerenes respectively
A. \[s{p^3},s{p^2},s{p^3}\]
B. \[s{p^2},s{p^2},s{p^3}\]
C. \[s{p^2},s{p^3},s{p^2}\]
D. \[s{p^3},s{p^2},s{p^2}\]

Answer 1

Hint:The type of hybridization depends on the number of sigma bonds formed by the central atom. If a carbon atom forms four sigma bonds with four other atoms, then this carbon atom is \[s{p^3}\] hybridized. If a carbon atom forms three sigma bonds with three other atoms, then this carbon atom is \[s{p^2}\] hybridized.

Complete answer:
In diamond, each carbon atom is linked to four other carbon atoms. Thus, each carbon atom forms four bonds. The carbon atoms in diamond have \[s{p^3}\] hybridization. This is similar to the carbon atom of methane.

Graphite has layer structure in which several layers are formed. In graphite, each carbon atom is linked to three carbon atoms present in the same layer via strong covalent bonds. There are some interactions between two carbon atoms present in two adjacent layers. The carbon atom in graphite is \[s{p^2}\] hybridized. This is similar to the carbon atom of ethylene.

Fullerenes are spherical in shape and have composition of \[{{\text{C}}_{2n}}\] where \[n \geqslant 30\] . You can dissolve fullerene in organic solvents. In fullerene, the carbon atom undergoes \[s{p^2}\] hybridization. To prepare fullerenes you heat graphite in an electric arc. We should provide an atmosphere of inert gases helium or argon. You can also evaporate graphite with a laser to prepare fullerenes.

\[{{\text{C}}_{60}}\] is called Buckminsterfullerene as it has a structure similar to geodesic domes.
 Fullerenes have closed cage structure like a soccer ball or football.

\[{{\text{C}}_{60}}\] molecule has 60 carbon atoms. These carbon atoms are arranged as 12 pentagons and 20 hexagons. Different fullerenes have different numbers of hexagons, and have different molecular sizes. Thus, the hybridization of Carbon in Diamond. Graphite and Fullerenes is \[s{p^3},s{p^2},s{p^3}\] respectively

Hence, the correct answer is the option (A).

Note:Fullerenes, graphite and diamond are pure forms of carbon. They all are carbon allotropes. They contain only carbon atoms. They do not contain impurities.