What is the hybridization of the carbonyl carbon?
Answer & explanation
Correct answer: option 2
The correct answer is Option (2) → sp2
The structure shown is propanone (acetone), \( \ce{CH3COCH3} \). Its carbonyl carbon forms three σ bonds (to two \( \ce{CH3} \) groups and to oxygen) and one π bond to oxygen, as every carbonyl carbon does.
NCERT (2026-27 edition):
8.1.2 Structure of the Carbonyl Group – “The carbonyl carbon atom is sp2-hybridised and forms three sigma (σ) bonds. The fourth valence electron of carbon remains in its p-orbital and forms a π-bond with oxygen by overlap with p-orbital of an oxygen.”