In a triplet carbene, the central carbon atom

Options

A. is `sp^2` hybridised
B. contains a lone pair of electrons
C. forms one o and one bonds with the groups attached
D. contains two unpaired electrons.

Explanation

To solve the question regarding the characteristics of a triplet carbene, we will analyze the properties of the central carbon atom in this species.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Triplet Carbene**:
- A triplet carbene is a species that contains a carbon atom with two unpaired electrons. This gives it a total spin multiplicity of three, hence the term "triplet."

2. **Hybridization of the Central Carbon Atom**:
- In a triplet carbene, the central carbon atom is **sp² hybridized**. This means that one s orbital and two p orbitals mix to form three sp² hybrid orbitals.

3. **Bond Formation**:
- The sp² hybridization allows the carbon atom to form:
- **One sigma bond** with each of the two groups (e.g., hydrogen atoms) attached to it.
- The remaining unhybridized p orbital contains one unpaired electron.

4. **Electron Configuration**:
- The two unpaired electrons in the triplet carbene are located in the two unhybridized p orbitals. This configuration leads to the characteristic stability and reactivity of carbenes.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, in a triplet carbene, the central carbon atom is sp² hybridized, contains **two unpaired electrons**, and forms **two sigma bonds** with the groups attached to it, while the unhybridized p orbitals hold the unpaired electrons.

### Final Answer:
In a triplet carbene, the central carbon atom is sp² hybridized, contains two unpaired electrons, and forms one sigma bond with each of the groups attached.

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