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.

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