Which of the following hybridization can explain the the shape of BeCl2?
Correct answer: B. sp hybridization
- A. sp2 hybridization
- B. sp hybridization
- C. sp3 hybridization
- D. dsp2 hybridization
Explanation
The correct hybridization for BeCl2 is sp, which occurs when there are two electron domains around the central atom. In BeCl2, the beryllium atom forms two bonds with chlorine atoms and has no lone pairs, leading to a linear molecular shape. This is characteristic of sp hybridization, where one s orbital and one p orbital mix to form two equivalent sp hybrid orbitals.The other options are incorrect as:sp2 hybridization: Requires three electron domains, usually resulting in a trigonal planar shape, which does not apply to BeCl2.sp3 hybridization: Involves four electron domains, resulting in a tetrahedral shape, which again is not applicable to BeCl2.dsp2 hybridization: Is typically seen in square planar complexes, not in a simple molecule like BeCl2.
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About Hybridization
Hybridization explains bonding by combining atomic orbitals to form equivalent hybrid orbitals with definite geometries. Coverage includes sp, sp², sp³, sp³d and sp³d² hybridization, their shapes and bond angles, and the relation of sigma and pi bonds to molecular structure.
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