How can we find the type of hybridization in a compound formed?

Hybridization is defined as the mixing of the atomic orbitals belonging to the same atom but having slightly different energies so that the same number of new orbitals are formed which have equivalent energy and identical shapes. These new orbitals are called as hybrid orbitals.

Depending on the combination of atomic orbitals the hybridization may be of various types as; sp³ (1s and 3p orbitals combine to form 4 sp³ hybrid orbital.), sp², sp etc.

 

=> sp- hybridization arises when one s and one p orbital combine to form two sp-orbital with 180° bond angle and linear shape to the molecule. The percentage of s and p are 50 %. Ex: C₂H₂ (acetylene)

 

=> sp² hybridization arises when one s and two p orbitals combine to form three sp² hybrid orbitals with bond angle of 120° and triangular planner shape where the s-character is 33.33% . Ex: C₂H₄ (Ethylene)

 

=> sp³ hybridization arises when 1s and 3p orbitals combine to form 4 sp³ hybrid orbital with bond angle 109°''28' and shape as tetrahedral where the s-character is 25% . Ex C₂H₆ (Ethane)

 

The type of hybridization can also be known by the number of pi bonds present on the atom.

If no pi bonds are present - it is sp³ hybridized, if 1 pi bond is present - it is sp² hybridized and if two pi bonds are present - it is sp hybridized.