Q18P - 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) AsCI₃

(b) SnCI₂

(c) PF₆^-

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. arsenic has sp³ hybridization
2. tin has sp² hybridization
3. phosphorus has sp³d² hybridization

Step1: For AsCI 3

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

 

 

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

Step2: For SnCI 2

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

 

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

Step3: For PF 6 -

Two d, three p and one s orbital of central atom forms octahedral geometry around phosphorus, and formation of sp³d² hybrid orbital takes place.

 

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