Mixing of atomic orbitals to create equivalent hybrid orbitals that explain molecular geometry.
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Hybridization is a model in which atomic orbitals of one atom mix to form a new set of equivalent hybrid orbitals whose directions match a molecule's observed geometry. The number of hybrid orbitals always equals the number of atomic orbitals mixed. The hybrids are oriented to minimize electron-pair repulsion, and each can overlap with a partner to form a sigma bond or hold a lone pair. Hybridization is a bookkeeping model rather than a physical process, and it is applied to the central atom of a molecule. It explains why carbon can form four equivalent bonds even though its 2s and 2p orbitals differ in energy.
Key ideas: Quick method: count sigma bonds plus lone pairs on the atom, and use steric number 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 for sp, sp2, sp3, sp3d, sp3d2. The unhybridized p orbitals remain for pi bonds. Example: HCN has carbon with 2 domains so it is sp, and the nitrogen is sp as well. Percentage s character is 1 divided by (1 plus the number of p orbitals).
Common mistakes and connections: Students think hybridization is a real process the atom undergoes before bonding, or assign it from the shape of the molecule without counting domains. For molecules with lone pairs, the central atom hybridization follows domain count, not the bonded atoms count. Links to VSEPR, valence bond theory, bond angles and bond lengths (more s means shorter).
One 2s and three 2p orbitals mix into four equivalent sp3 hybrids, with an energy at the weighted average, one quarter s and three quarters p. The interactive lesson shows this as a live animation or chart.
A carbon atom mixes its 2s and three 2p orbitals to make four sp3 hybrid orbitals for bonding in methane.
Mixing of atomic orbitals to create equivalent hybrid orbitals that explain molecular geometry.
Hybridization is a intermediate topic in Bonding & Molecular Structure. It builds on the vocabulary of beginner topics in this area.
Study these earlier topics in Bonding & Molecular Structure first: Valence Bond Theory, Sigma Bond, Pi Bond.
The next topics in Bonding & Molecular Structure are sp3 Hybridization and sp2 Hybridization.
Yes. The interactive lesson includes a self-check question on Hybridization, and the Bonding & Molecular Structure quiz draws on every topic in this area.
Hybridization is topic 53 of 104 in Bonding & Molecular Structure.