1.09 Å

Definition

1.09 Å is a unit of length that represents the average bond length between a carbon atom and a hydrogen atom in a methane (CH4) molecule. This bond length is a critical parameter in understanding the structure and properties of methane, as well as the concept of sp3 hybrid orbitals in organic chemistry.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The 1.09 Å bond length is the average distance between the carbon and hydrogen atoms in a methane (CH4) molecule.
2. This bond length is a result of the sp3 hybridization of the carbon atom, which allows it to form four equivalent covalent bonds with the hydrogen atoms.
3. The sp3 hybridization of the carbon atom in methane leads to a tetrahedral molecular geometry, with bond angles of approximately 109.5 degrees.
4. The 1.09 Å bond length is a characteristic feature of the strong covalent bonds between carbon and hydrogen atoms in organic compounds.
5. The precise bond length of 1.09 Å is an important parameter in understanding the stability, reactivity, and physical properties of methane and other organic molecules.

Review Questions

• Explain the relationship between the 1.09 Å bond length and the sp3 hybridization of the carbon atom in methane.
  • The 1.09 Å bond length in methane is a direct result of the sp3 hybridization of the carbon atom. The sp3 hybridization allows the carbon to form four equivalent covalent bonds with the hydrogen atoms, leading to a tetrahedral molecular geometry. This specific bond length is characteristic of the strong carbon-hydrogen bonds and is an important factor in determining the stability, reactivity, and physical properties of the methane molecule.
• Describe how the 1.09 Å bond length contributes to the overall structure and geometry of the methane molecule.
  • The 1.09 Å bond length between the carbon and hydrogen atoms in methane is a key factor in the molecule's tetrahedral geometry. This bond length, combined with the sp3 hybridization of the carbon atom, results in the four C-H bonds being arranged in a tetrahedral configuration with bond angles of approximately 109.5 degrees. This specific bond length and geometry are crucial for understanding the stability and reactivity of methane, as well as its physical properties, such as its low boiling point and high flammability.
• Analyze the importance of the 1.09 Å bond length in the context of organic chemistry and the broader understanding of molecular structure.
  • The 1.09 Å bond length between carbon and hydrogen atoms is a fundamental parameter in organic chemistry, as it is a characteristic feature of the covalent bonds that hold together many organic molecules. This bond length is not only important for understanding the structure of methane, but it also provides insights into the general principles of molecular structure and bonding in organic compounds. The 1.09 Å bond length is a key piece of information that allows chemists to predict and rationalize the geometries, stabilities, and reactivity of a wide range of organic molecules, which is essential for the study and application of organic chemistry in fields such as biochemistry, materials science, and drug design.

Related terms

Bond Length: The distance between the nuclei of two bonded atoms, typically measured in angstroms (Å).

Covalent Bond: A chemical bond formed by the sharing of one or more pairs of electrons between two atoms.

Hybridization: The process of mixing atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals, which are used to describe the bonding in molecules.