Question

Identify the geometry and hybridization of the central atom in SF₄.

• A. Trigonal bipyramidal, sp² hybridization
• B. Tetrahedral, sp³ hybridization
• C. Seesaw, sp³d hybridization
• D. Square planar, sp³d² hybridization

Hint:

In molecules with lone pairs, remember that the lone pairs affect the geometry. In SF₄, the electron geometry is octahedral, but the molecular geometry is seesaw due to the lone pairs.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

In SF₄ (sulfur tetrafluoride), sulfur is the central atom. To determine the geometry and hybridization of the central atom, we need to consider the Lewis structure and the electron-pair repulsion model (VSEPR theory).
1. Lewis Structure of SF₄: - Sulfur has 6 valence electrons, and each fluorine has 7 valence electrons. The total number of valence electrons in SF₄ is: \[ 6 \, (\text{from S}) + 4 \times 7 \, (\text{from F}) = 34 \, \text{electrons} \] - In the Lewis structure, sulfur forms four single bonds with fluorine atoms. Two lone pairs of electrons remain on sulfur, giving a total of 6 electron pairs around the sulfur atom. 2. Electron Geometry: - According to VSEPR theory, with 6 electron pairs (4 bonding and 2 lone pairs), the electron geometry is octahedral. However, lone pairs occupy equatorial positions to minimize repulsion, so the resulting molecular geometry is seesaw. 3. Hybridization: - The central sulfur atom needs to form 4 sigma bonds with fluorine and accommodate 2 lone pairs. This requires the use of sp³d hybrid orbitals, which are derived from the mixing of one s orbital, three p orbitals, and one d orbital. 4. Conclusion: - The molecular geometry of SF₄ is seesaw, and the hybridization of the sulfur atom is sp³d.