Practice question · Multiple choice
Hybridisation is a mathematical construct to explain observed geometry rather than a physical event occurring prior to bonding. What follows from this distinction when analysing a newly synthesised molecule?
Hints
- Does hybridisation cause the molecular shape, or does the shape determine the model we choose?
- Can an isolated, non-bonded atom possess hybrid orbitals?
Show the answer
A. The experimental geometry dictates which hybridisation scheme should be applied
Why
Assuming hybrids exist as physical precursors confuses descriptive models with physical steps. Hybrid schemes are chosen retrospectively to reflect measured bond angles, while overall molecular stability emerges from total energy minimisation across all nuclei and electrons.
Practise Hybridisation and Molecular Orbitals
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