Draw the Lewis structure of acetic acid (CH3COOH) and then choose the appropriate set hybridization states for the three central atoms

Draw the Lewis structure of acetic acid (CH3COOH) and then choose the appropriate set hybridization states for the three central atoms. Your answer choice is independent of the orientation of your drawn structure. None

A) sp³/sp³/sp³

B) sp/sp/sp²

C) sp³/sp/sp

D) sp³/sp²/sp³

E) sp³/sp³/sp

The Correct Answer and Explanation is :

Acetic acid (CH₃COOH) is a simple organic acid composed of two carbon atoms, four hydrogen atoms, and two oxygen atoms. To determine the hybridization states of the central atoms, we first need to draw its Lewis structure and analyze the bonding.

Lewis Structure of Acetic Acid:

1. Total Valence Electrons:

• Carbon (C): 4 valence electrons × 2 = 8
• Hydrogen (H): 1 valence electron × 4 = 4
• Oxygen (O): 6 valence electrons × 2 = 12
• Total: 8 + 4 + 12 = 24 valence electrons

1. Structure:

• The central carbon atoms are connected by a single bond.
• One carbon (C₁) is bonded to three hydrogen atoms (H₃) and the other carbon (C₂).
• The second carbon (C₂) is double-bonded to an oxygen atom (O) and single-bonded to a hydroxyl group (OH). The Lewis structure can be represented as:

   H₃C - C = O
             |
             OH

Hybridization States:

• C₁ (CH₃ group):
• C₁ forms four sigma bonds (three with hydrogen and one with C₂).
• This configuration corresponds to sp³ hybridization, resulting in a tetrahedral geometry.
• C₂ (COOH group):
• C₂ forms three sigma bonds (one with C₁ and two with oxygen atoms) and one pi bond (with the double-bonded oxygen).
• This setup indicates sp² hybridization, leading to a trigonal planar geometry.
• Oxygen in the Hydroxyl Group (OH):
• The oxygen atom in the hydroxyl group forms one sigma bond with C₂ and has two lone pairs.
• This arrangement suggests sp³ hybridization, resulting in a bent geometry.

Conclusion:

The appropriate set of hybridization states for the central atoms in acetic acid is sp³/sp²/sp³. This configuration reflects the tetrahedral geometry of the methyl group (CH₃), the trigonal planar geometry of the carboxyl group (COOH), and the bent geometry of the hydroxyl group (OH).

For a visual representation and a step-by-step explanation of drawing the Lewis structure of acetic acid, you may find the following video helpful:

CH₃COOH Lewis Structure (Acetic acid)