Hybridization is when atomic orbitals mix together to form new orbitals so atoms can make bonds in the right shape.
- Atoms have s, p, and sometimes d orbitals.
- When they bond, these orbitals combine to make hybrid orbitals.
- Hybrid orbitals help determine the shape and bond angles of molecules.
Examples:
- sp → 2 bonds, linear (180°) → BeCl₂
- sp² → 3 bonds, trigonal planar (120°) → BF₃
- sp³ → 4 bonds, tetrahedral (109.5°) → CH₄
- sp³d → 5 bonds, trigonal bipyramidal → PCl₅
- sp³d² → 6 bonds, octahedral (90°) → SF₆
In short: Hybridization = mixing orbitals to make bonds and shapes in molecules.