Question

What is the hybridization of the central atom in \(SF_6\) molecule?

• A. \(sp^3\)
• B. \(sp^2\)
• C. \(sp^3d\)
• D. \(sp^3d^2\)

Hint:

Steric number vs hybridization: \(2 \rightarrow sp\) \(3 \rightarrow sp^2\) \(4 \rightarrow sp^3\) \(5 \rightarrow sp^3d\) \(6 \rightarrow sp^3d^2\)

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Concept: Hybridization depends on the steric number: \[ \text{Steric number} = \text{Number of sigma bonds} + \text{lone pairs} \] The steric number determines the hybridization.

Step 1: Determine the bonding in \(SF_6\). Sulfur forms six sigma bonds with six fluorine atoms. \[ \text{Number of sigma bonds} = 6 \] \[ \text{Lone pairs on S} = 0 \]

Step 2: Find the steric number. \[ SN = 6 \]

Step 3: Determine the hybridization. For steric number \(6\): \[ \text{Hybridization} = sp^3d^2 \] Thus, \[ \boxed{sp^3d^2} \]