Question

Is my understanding of hybridization correct? Are sp and sp2 orbitals created by energetically similar atomic orbitals (2s-2p) while other (sp3+) can be formed by energetically different atomic orbitals (1s-2p)?

Answer 1

Your understanding of hybridization is partially correct, but there are a few points that need clarification.

In general, hybridization is a concept used to describe the mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals that are energetically equivalent and suitable for bonding in molecules. Hybrid orbitals are combinations of atomic orbitals from the same atom and are involved in the formation of covalent bonds.

Regarding sp and sp2 hybrid orbitals, they are indeed formed by the mixing of energetically similar atomic orbitals. Let's take carbon as an example:

1. In the case of sp hybridization, one 2s orbital and one 2p orbital of carbon combine to form two sp hybrid orbitals. This results in the reorganization of electron density, leading to two new orbitals that are linearly oriented. These sp hybrid orbitals are used in molecules like acetylene (C2H2) and linear carbon-based compounds.

2. In the case of sp2 hybridization, one 2s orbital and two 2p orbitals of carbon combine to form three sp2 hybrid orbitals. The remaining p orbital remains unhybridized and perpendicular to the plane formed by the sp2 hybrid orbitals. These sp2 hybrid orbitals are used in molecules like ethene (C2H4) and trigonal planar carbon-based compounds.

As for sp3 hybridization, it does involve energetically different atomic orbitals, but not necessarily 1s and 2p orbitals. Instead, it involves one 2s orbital and three 2p orbitals of carbon. The hybridization of these four orbitals results in the formation of four sp3 hybrid orbitals that are arranged in a tetrahedral geometry. These sp3 hybrid orbitals are used in molecules like methane (CH4) and other tetrahedral carbon-based compounds.

To summarize, sp and sp2 hybrid orbitals are formed by the mixing of energetically similar atomic orbitals (2s and 2p orbitals), while sp3 hybrid orbitals involve a combination of one 2s orbital and three 2p orbitals, leading to a different hybridization scheme. The specific orbitals involved in hybridization depend on the element and the molecular geometry desired.