What is hybridization?

Hybridization is a way to explain molecular shapes that can't be explained easily by considering simple overlap of the s and p orbitals. If only these simple atomic orbitals were involved in bonding, all bond angles would be the same as those between the p orbitals (all 90°). Hybridization is a mixing of valence atomic orbitals to give a new set of orbitals that reflect the (correct) geometry of the molecule.

Author: Fred Senese senese@antoine.frostburg.edu

Copyright © 1997-2010 by Fred Senese
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Last Revised 02/23/18.URL: http://antoine.frostburg.edu/chem/senese/101/bonds/faq/what-is-hybridization.shtml