Expanded valence shell hybridization for five and six electron groups, as in PCl5 and SF6.
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The sp3d and sp3d2 labels describe the textbook hybridization of central atoms with five and six electron domains, which requires d orbitals in addition to s and p orbitals. Five domains correspond to sp3d hybridization and a trigonal bipyramidal arrangement, while six domains correspond to sp3d2 and an octahedral arrangement. Modern calculations show that d orbital participation is small in main-group compounds, and bonding is better described by ionic contributions and three-center bonds. The labels remain a convenient geometry guide for teaching. They should be viewed as a model rather than a literal description.
Key ideas: Use these labels only as shorthand for five and six domains: PCl5 (sp3d, trigonal bipyramidal), SF6 (sp3d2, octahedral), XeF4 (sp3d2 with two lone pairs). They apply to period 3 and heavier central atoms. A more accurate model describes SF6 by using only s and p orbitals and three-center four-electron bonds with polar bonds.
Common mistakes and connections: Mistakes include assigning sp3d2 to carbon, nitrogen or oxygen, or using it for transition metal complexes in a way that conflicts with ligand field results. Also, do not state that d orbitals in sulfur are significantly occupied. Links to hypervalency, expanded octet, VSEPR and crystal field theory.
Five electron domains in PCl5 are described as sp3d hybridization, though modern calculations show d orbital contribution is small. The interactive lesson shows this as a live animation or chart.
Sulfur in SF6 is described as sp3d2 hybridized, giving six equivalent S-F bonds in an octahedron.
Expanded valence shell hybridization for five and six electron groups, as in PCl5 and SF6.
sp3d and sp3d2 Hybridization is a advanced topic in Bonding & Molecular Structure. It builds on beginner and intermediate topics, so review those first if needed.
Study these earlier topics in Bonding & Molecular Structure first: sp3 Hybridization, sp2 Hybridization, sp Hybridization.
The next topics in Bonding & Molecular Structure are Hybridization of Water and Ammonia and Molecular Orbital Theory.
Yes. The interactive lesson includes a self-check question on sp3d and sp3d2 Hybridization, and the Bonding & Molecular Structure quiz draws on every topic in this area.
sp3d and sp3d2 Hybridization is topic 57 of 104 in Bonding & Molecular Structure.