Question

What type of hybridization is observed in interhalogen compounds of the type XX\(_3\)?

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

Hint:

Always determine hybridization by counting total electron pairs (bond pairs + lone pairs) around the central atom.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understand the general formula XX\(_3\).
Interhalogen compounds of the type XX\(_3\) (for example, ClF\(_3\), BrF\(_3\)) contain one central halogen atom bonded to three surrounding halogen atoms.
Step 2: Count electron pairs around the central atom.
The central atom has 3 bond pairs and 2 lone pairs, making a total of 5 electron pairs.
Step 3: Determine the hybridization.
Five electron pairs correspond to trigonal bipyramidal electron geometry, which requires sp\(^3\)d hybridization.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Interhalogen compounds of type XX\(_3\) show sp\(^3\)d hybridization.