Question

The molecule $M{X}_3$ has zero dipole moment. The sigma bonding orbitals used by M are:

• A. Pure $p$
• B. $sp$ hybrids
• C. $s{p}^2$ hybrids
• D. $s{p}^3$ hybrids

Answer 1

The correct option is C $s{p}^2$ hybrids

Since, the molecule $M{X}_3$ has zero dipole moment, the sigma - bonding orbitals used by M are $s{p}^2$ hybridized. In this case, planar triangonal geometry results in the cancellation of the dipole moments of the individual $M-X$ bonds.
Hence, the overall molecule has zero dipole moment.