Question

What is the hybridization state of cation part of solid $PC{l}_5$?

• A. $s{p}^3{d}^2$
• B. $s{p}^2$
• C. $s{p}^3$
• D. $s{p}^{3}d$

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

$s{p}^3$

In solid state, $PC{l}_5$ prefers to exist as oppositely charged ions like $[PC{l}_4{]}^{+}PC{l}_6^{-}$ as ionic bonding enhances the crystalline nature. Also, $[PC{l}_4{]}^{+}=s{p}^3$ is tetrahedral while $\left[PC{l}_6^{-}\right]$ is octahedral. These structures fit well into each other providing extra stability to the soild structure.

Thus, solid $PC{l}_5$ exist as $\left[PC{l}_4{]}^{+}\right[PC{l}_6{]}^{-}$
The cationic part of $PC{l}_5$ is$[PC{l}_4{]}^{+}$.
In $PC{l}_4^{+}$, Phosphorous forms $4\sigma -bonds$.

Hence, the hybridization is $s{p}^3$.