Chemistry Q&A

What is hybridisation?

Answer

Hybridisation is the mixing of atomic orbitals of similar energy on the same atom to form new hybrid orbitals of equal energy and definite geometry used for bonding.

Explanation

In molecules like CH₄, the observed tetrahedral shape is explained by mixing one 2s and three 2p orbitals of carbon to give four equivalent sp³ hybrids.

Each hybrid orbital forms a σ bond (or holds a lone pair). Leftover p orbitals can form π bonds.

For exams, map steric number (σ bonds + lone pairs) on the central atom to sp, sp², sp³, sp³d, or sp³d².

Example · CH₄ → carbon is sp³; BF₃ → boron is sp²; BeCl₂ → beryllium is sp.

Grewal Sir’s Tip: Hybridisation is a model — start from a correct Lewis structure, then assign hybrids.

Relevant for: BOARDS · JEE · NEET