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.
This question appeared on the ETEA MDCAT 2012 paper, which you can sit online with every answer explained.
Report an error
The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.
Prefer email? [email protected]
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.
Practise Chemical Bonding
964 free Chemical Bonding MCQs from Chemistry, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.
Discussion
Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.
No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.
Exams that ask Chemistry questions like this
Chemistry is on 14 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.
More Hybridization questions
In which of the following compounds carbon is sp hybridized?
Species in which the central atom uses sp hybride orbital in its bonding is:
Carbon atom in carbonyl is:
Which of the following structure has a bond formed by an overlap of sp2 hybrid orbital with that of sp2 hybrid orbital?
The bond angle between H-C-H bond in ethane is:
Which one of the following has a covalent bonding by the overlap of sp hybridised orbital with p orbital?