Multiple Choice
What is the hybridization of the carbon atom in the cyanate ion (NCO−)?
12. Molecular Shapes & Valence Bond Theory
Hybridization
Multiple Choice
What is the name of the hybrid orbitals used by sulfur in SCl_2?
A
sp^2
B
dsp^3
C
sp
D
sp^3
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the central atom and its valence electrons. In SCl_2, sulfur (S) is the central atom with 6 valence electrons.
Determine the number of bonded atoms and lone pairs on sulfur. Sulfur is bonded to 2 chlorine atoms and has 2 lone pairs of electrons.
Calculate the steric number, which is the sum of bonded atoms and lone pairs: Steric number = 2 (bonded atoms) + 2 (lone pairs) = 4.
Use the steric number to determine the hybridization. A steric number of 4 corresponds to sp^3 hybridization.
Conclude that sulfur in SCl_2 uses sp^3 hybrid orbitals to accommodate the bonding and lone pairs.
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