Chapter 9: Problem 24

What is the chemical basis of molecular hybridization?

Short Answer

Expert verified

Answer: The chemical basis of molecular hybridization is the combination of atomic orbitals with similar energies to form new hybrid orbitals, which participate in the formation of chemical bonds between atoms. The geometry of hybrid orbitals determines the arrangement of atoms in a molecule, playing a crucial role in predicting molecular structure and reactivity.

Step by step solution

Introduction to Hybridization

Hybridization is a concept in chemistry that explains the formation of molecular orbitals during the process of bonding between atoms. Essentially, it describes how atomic orbitals - the regions around atoms where electrons are most likely to be found - combine or mix to form new hybrid orbitals, which then participate in bonding with other atoms.

Atomic Orbitals

Atomic orbitals are classified into different shapes and energy levels, such as s, p, d, and f orbitals, depending on the solutions of the Schrödinger equation for an electron in an atom. The number of atomic orbitals present in an energy level is always equal to the number of electrons that can occupy that level.

Mixing of Atomic Orbitals

During the process of hybridization, atomic orbitals with similar energies mix or combine to form hybrid orbitals, which have a different shape and orientation in space. The number of hybrid orbitals formed is equal to the number of atomic orbitals that undergo hybridization.

Types of Hybridization

There are several types of hybridization, depending on the types of orbitals that mix and the resulting geometry of the hybrid orbitals. The most common types of hybridization are: 1. sp hybridization: Formed by the combination of one s and one p orbital, resulting in two hybrid orbitals. In this case, the hybrid orbitals exhibit linear geometry. 2. sp2 hybridization: Formed by the combination of one s and two p orbitals, resulting in three hybrid orbitals. This leads to trigonal planar geometry. 3. sp3 hybridization: Formed by the combination of one s and three p orbitals, resulting in four hybrid orbitals. In this case, the hybrid orbitals exhibit tetrahedral geometry.

Hybrid Orbitals in Chemical Bonding

Hybrid orbitals participate in the formation of chemical bonds in molecules. The geometry of hybrid orbitals determines the shape of the resulting molecule, as well as its bond angles and bond lengths. The process of hybridization provides a more accurate description of molecular structure and bonding than considering individual atomic orbitals.

Example: Methane (CH4)

In methane, the central carbon atom undergoes sp3 hybridization, combining its one 2s and three 2p orbitals to form four sp3 hybrid orbitals. These hybrid orbitals form four sigma bonds with hydrogen atoms. As a result, the molecule has a tetrahedral shape, with a bond angle of 109.5 degrees between each hydrogen-carbon-hydrogen bond. In conclusion, the chemical basis of molecular hybridization is the combination of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals, which participate in the formation of chemical bonds between atoms. The geometry of hybrid orbitals determines the arrangement of atoms in a molecule, and understanding hybridization is crucial for predicting molecular structure and reactivity.

Unlock Step-by-Step Solutions & Ace Your Exams!

Full Textbook Solutions
Get detailed explanations and key concepts
Unlimited Al creation
Al flashcards, explanations, exams and more...
Ads-free access
To over 500 millions flashcards
Money-back guarantee
We refund you if you fail your exam.

Start your free trial

Over 30 million students worldwide already upgrade their learning with Vaia!

Recommended explanations on Biology Textbooks

View all explanations

What do you think about this solution?

We value your feedback to improve our textbook solutions.

What is the chemical basis of molecular hybridization?

Short Answer

Step by step solution

Introduction to Hybridization

Atomic Orbitals

Mixing of Atomic Orbitals

Types of Hybridization

Hybrid Orbitals in Chemical Bonding

Example: Methane (CH4)

One App. One Place for Learning.

Most popular questions from this chapter

Recommended explanations on Biology Textbooks

Cells

Cellular Energetics

Chemistry of Life

Organ Systems

Microbiology

Cell Cycle

Study anywhere. Anytime. Across all devices.