14.2 Hybridization

Molecular Geometries

• There are 2 theories that are used to understand molecular geometries:
  1. Valence bond theory (VBT)
     • VBT considers that atoms approach each other to form a molecule. The bond formed results from the overlap of atomic orbitals resulting in a bonding orbital with the electrons localized between two atoms.
     • This theory is also used to explain hybridization
  2. Molecular orbital theory (MOT)
     • MOT assumes that when atomic orbitals overlap, the overlap results in the formation of a new orbital called molecular orbital

Hybridization

• A hybrid orbital results from the mixing of different types of atomic orbitals on the same atom
• Consider:
  • sp³ as seen in methane
    • Watch this video
  • sp² as seen in ethene
    • Watch this video
  • sp as seen in ethyne
    • Watch this video