Q16P - Chemistry: Molecular Nature Of Matter And Change

Question

Use partial orbital diagrams to show how the atomic orbitals of the central atom lead to hybrid orbitals in

(a) BF₄^- 

(b) PO₄^3-

(c) SO₃

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The process of mixing orbital to form new orbital with stable bonds is known as hybridization. The number of hybrid orbitals formed is equal to the number of atomic orbitals mixed.

 

The central atom

1. Boron has sp³ hybridization
2. Phosphorus has sp³ hybridization
3. Sulphur has sp² hybridization

Step1: For BF 4 -

Three p and one s orbital of central atom forms tetrahedral geometry around boron and formation of sp³ hybrid orbital takes place.

 

   

 

During the formation of bonds, each half-filled Boron orbital gets the second electron from Fluorine atoms.

Step2: For PO 4 3-

Three p and one s orbital of central atom forms tetrahedral geometry around phosphorus and formation of sp³ hybrid orbital takes place.

 

 

During the formation of bonds, each half-filled phosphorus orbital gets the second electron from oxygen atoms.

Step3: For SO 3

Two p and one s orbital of central atom forms trigonal planar geometry around sulphur and formation of sp² hybrid orbital takes place.

     

During the formation of bonds, each half-filled sulphur orbital gets the second electron from oxygen atoms.