Hybridization of PH3 (Phosphine)

When we talk about the hybridization of PH₃ the answer might be quite surprising. It’s because PH₃ does have a well-defined hybridization or the process of hybridization does not occur in the phosphine molecule. We will discuss why this happens below.

What is the Hybridization of Phosphine?

If we look at the chemical compound phosphine, during its formation the pure p orbitals take part in bonding and avoid getting hybridized. The lone pair orbital is mainly the s orbital. Phosphorus forms three bond pairs and one lone pair. However, the whole concept can be better explained if you understand Drago’s Rule. This rule states that hybridization will not take place if;

• Central atom belongs to third or higher period.
• Central atom has one lone pair.
• The electronegativity of the terminal atom is less than carbon.

In essence, ph₃ is a Drago molecule and if we look at its bond angle data it shows that the p-orbitals have an angle of 90°. Looking at its Lewis structure we can state that molecular geometry of PH₃ is trigonal pyramidal.

Important Points To Remember

• In PH₃ hybridization does not take place.
• The pure p orbitals take part in bonding.
• In phosphine, orthogonal 3p orbitals overlap with 1s orbital of H.

Read More About Hybridization of Other Chemical Compounds

• Hybridization Of BCl3
• Hybridization Of BrF5
• Hybridization Of XeO2F2
• Hybridization Of BeCl2
• Hybridization Of Ethene

Chemical Bonding