Question

A $s{p}^3$ hybrid orbital contains:

• A. $1/4$ th s - character
• B. $1/2$ th s - character
• C. $2/3$ th s - character
• D. $3/4$ th s - character

Answer 1

The correct option is A $1/4$ th s - character

$s{p}^3$ hybridization can explain the tetrahedral structure of molecules. In it, the 1 $s$ orbitals and all three of the p orbitals hybridize to form four $s{p}^3$ orbitals, each consisting of $75$% or $3/4thp$ character and $25$% or $1/4ths$ character.