Question

What is an `sp^2` orbital?

Answer 1

an sp^2 hybrid orbital is formed by the hybrid qualities of an s orbital and 2 p orbitals.

Explanation:

An sp^2 orbital forms when an electron from the s orbital in the second shell. an electron from a p orbital goes into a higher energy state so the 2s orbital has one electron and the three p orbitals have an electron in and have a similar shape to a mixture of s and p orbitals. This can make molecules with a bond angle of 120 degrees. In carbon the spare p orbital is unhybridised and in ethylene this can overlap with an unhybridised p orbital of another carbon atom in side to side overlap which forms a pi bond hence the double bond,