Question

Some of the properties of the two species, $NO_3^-$ and ${H_3O^+}$ are described below. Which one of them is correct?

• A. Isostructural with same hybridization for the central atom
• B. Isostructural with different hybridization for the central atom
• C. Similar in hybridization for the central atom with different structures
• D. Dissimilar in hybridization for the central atom with different structures

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The correct answer is Option D) Dissimilar in hybridization for the central atom with different structures

In \({NO_3 , H = \frac{1}{2} [ 5 + 0 - 0 + 1 ] = 3}\) 
Thus, in \({NO^{-}_{3}}\), the central atom is sp2 hybridized and it has trifocal planar geometry. 
In \({H_3 O^{+}}\) , 
\({H = \frac{1}{2} [ 6 + 3 - 1 +0 ] = 4 }\) 
Thus, \(O\) is \(sp^3\) hybridised in \({H_3O^{+}}\) and \({H_3O^{+}}\) has pyramidal geometry due to the presence of one lone pair of electrons.

 

Answer 2

The correct answer is Option D) Dissimilar in hybridization for the central atom with different structures

Real Life Applications

In agriculture, nitrates are utilised as fertilisers due to their high solubility and biodegradability. Salts of ammonium, sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium are the principal nitrate fertilisers. For this use, many billion kilogrammes are generated each year. 
The most common application for nitrates as oxidising agents is in explosives, where the quick oxidation of carbon compounds releases significant amounts of gases. 
To get rid of air bubbles in molten glass and various ceramics, use sodium nitrate. Some metals are hardened using salt mixtures that are molten. 
Nitrocellulose was also utilised to create films from nitrate. Nitrates, sometimes referred to as nitrovasodilators in the medical sector, are utilised in the prevention and treatment of heart attacks. Hydronium ions can be found in creams and gels for the skin. They may be used to treat skin disorders including acne, rashes, redness, and others while also restoring the skin's health. 

Question can also be asked as

1. Which of the following statements about NO3- and H3O+ is correct? 
2. NO3- and H3O+ have different hybridizations and structures. True or false? 
3. NO3- and H3O+ are isostructural. True or false? NO3- has sp2 hybridization and trigonal planar structure, while H3O+ has sp3 hybridization and pyramidal structure. True or false?
4. What are the differences between the hybridization and structure of NO3- and H3O+? How do the hybridization and structure of NO3- and H3O+ affect their properties?