When three atomic orbitals are mixed to form hybrid orbitals, how many hybrid orbitals are formed?
A)one
B)six
C)three
D)four
E)five

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When three atomic orbitals are mixed to form hybrid orbitals, three hybrid orbitals are formed. This is because hybridization involves combining one s and two or three p orbitals to form hybrid orbitals. The resulting hybrid orbitals are equivalent in energy and have a shape that is intermediate between the original orbitals. Therefore, for three atomic orbitals, three hybrid orbitals are formed.

When Three Atomic Orbitals Are Mixed to Form Hybrid Orbitals