Question

The central carbon atom of a free radical contains:
A. 6 electrons
B. 7 electrons
C. 8 electrons
D. 10 electrons

Answer 1

The carbon atom has the molecular hybridization of $S{P_2}$ and its free radical is formed by the homolytic bond cleavage, leading to the cleavage in such a way that electrons involved in bonding are split equally.

Step by step answer: A free radical is defined as a molecule or an atom which contains the valence electrons which can be used for bond formation in a compound formation. Carbon free radical means the free valence electrons of the carbon atom which can be used for the bond formation.

The central carbon atom of a free radical contains 7 electrons. Free radical is obtained by homolytic bond cleavage. Hence, the central carbon atom of a free radical contains 7 electrons.

Carbon atomic number is 6 and its hybridization is $1{S_2},2{S_2},2{P_2}$ .

It means that carbon satisfies its valency with other atoms and a single electron is left. It shows that the free radical carbon atom has $S{P_2}$ molecular hybridization.
As a carbon atom of a free radical is formed with a hemolytic fusion and covalent bond formation. The free radical gets formed by three complete electron bonds and one unpaired electron as each fragment gets the share of each electron. Therefore making a total of Seven electrons available.

Therefore the correct option is option (B) 7 electrons.

Additional information: A free radical is a reactive intermediate formed with a single unpaired electron of very short lifespan. Carbon radical is a neutral carbon species with three single bonds and one unpaired electron.

Note: Radical reactions are non-ionic reactions. Radical is generally represented by a single atom and a presence of a dot over it denoting unpaired electrons.