Question

Hybridization of central atom changes for which of the following molecule when undergoes dimerization:

• A. CF$_{3}$
• B. ClO$_{3}$
• C. NO$_{2}$
• D. CH$_{3}$

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

ClO$_{3}$

Answer 2

In CF₃, the central C atom is $sp^3$ hybridized. Upon dimerization to C₂F₆, it remains $sp^3$ hybridized.

In ClO₃, the central Cl atom is $sp^3$ hybridized. Upon dimerization to Cl₂O₆ (which exists as [ClO₂]⁺[ClO₄]⁻), the Cl in ClO₂⁺ is $sp^2$ hybridized, and the Cl in ClO₄⁻ is $sp^3$ hybridized. Thus, the hybridization changes.

In NO₂, the central N atom is $sp^2$ hybridized. Upon dimerization to N₂O₄, it remains $sp^2$ hybridized.

In CH₃, the central C atom is $sp^3$ hybridized. Upon dimerization to C₂H₆, it remains $sp^3$ hybridized.

Therefore, the hybridization of the central atom changes for ClO₃ upon dimerization.