All of the following molecules exhibit a linear geometry. In which of these molecules does the central atom possess a hybridization other than sp ?

Step-by-step solution

The geometry of a molecule depends on the hybridization of its central atom and the number of lone pairs. In CO ₂ , the central carbon atom forms two bonds and has no lone pairs. Its steric number is 2, corresponding to sp hybridization and a linear shape. In BeCl ₂ , the central beryllium atom forms two bonds with no lone pairs, resulting in sp hybridization and a linear shape. In HCN , the central carbon atom forms two bonds (one single bond with hydrogen, one triple bond with nitrogen) and has no lone pairs, lea