Question

Number of σ and π bonds present in ethylene molecule is respectively :

• A. 3 and 1
• B. 5 and 2
• C. 4 and 1
• D. 5 and 1

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

 

Ethylene (C₂H₄) has the following bonding:

• Each carbon is sp² hybridized, forming three σ bonds (two with hydrogen and one with the other carbon).
• There is one π bond between the two carbons formed by the overlap of unhybridized p orbitals.

Thus, ethylene has:

5 σ bonds and 1 π bond.

Answer 2

Step 1: Write the structure of ethylene
Ethylene (\(C_2H_4\)) has the structural formula:
\[ H_2C = CH_2 \] Each carbon atom forms three sigma (σ) bonds — two with hydrogen atoms and one with the other carbon atom — and shares one pi (π) bond between the two carbon atoms.

Step 2: Count σ (sigma) bonds
• 4 C–H bonds → 4 σ bonds
• 1 C–C single bond → 1 σ bond
Total σ bonds = 4 + 1 = 5 σ bonds.

Step 3: Count π (pi) bonds
• The double bond between the two carbon atoms consists of one σ and one π bond.
Therefore, π bonds = 1.

Step 4: Final answer

5 and 1