Question

What is sp2 and sp3 hybridization

Answer 1

Hybridization is defined as the concept of mixing two atomic orbitals with the same energy levels to give a degenerated new type of orbitals. This intermixing is based on quantum mechanics..

The atomic orbitals of the same energy level can only take part in hybridization and both full filled and half-filled orbitals can also take part in this process provided they have equal energy. During the process, the atomic orbitals of similar energy are mixed together such as the mixing of two ‘s’ orbitals or two ‘p’ orbital’s or mixing of an ‘s’ orbital with a ‘p’ orbital or ‘s’ orbital with a ‘d’ orbital.

sp² Hybridization

• This kind involves mixing of one ‘s’ orbital and two ‘p’ orbital’s of equal energy to give a new hybrid orbital known as sp².
• A mixture of s and p orbital formed in trigonal symmetry and is maintained at 120⁰.
• Example of sp² hybridized is: Ethylene (C₂H₄)
• sp³ Hybridization
• This type involves mixing of one ‘s’ orbital and three ‘p’ orbital’s of equal energy to give a new hybrid orbital known as sp³.
• A mixture of s and p orbitals formed is in tetrahedral symmetry and is maintained at 109.28⁰.
• Example of sp³ hybridization: Ethane (C₂H₆)