Do double bonds affect bond angle?

1 Answer
Alexander A. · Stefan V.
Dec 7, 2015

Yes, the bond angle will be affected due to a different hybridization on the atoms.

Explanation:

A double bond involves a sigma bond and a pi bond. The pi bond is between pi orbitals of adjacent atoms in a molecule. Because of the acquisition of these additional orbitals, the hybridization must change.

In #"CH"_3-"CH"_3#, the carbons have a hybridization of #"sp"^3#, resulting in a tetrahedral structure.

In #"CH"_2="CH"_2#, the carbons have a hybridization of #"sp"^2#, resulting in trigonal planar structure.

Tetrahedral and trigonal planar molecular structures have different bond angles.

Related questions
See all questions in Molecular Geometry
Impact of this question
11258 views around the world
You can reuse this answer
Creative Commons License