Question

The hybridization of S in SO$_3$ is

• A. sp$^2$
• B. sp$^3$
• C. sp$^3$d
• D. sp$^3$d$^2$

Hint:

In molecules like SO$_3$, sp$^2$ hybridization leads to a trigonal planar structure with 120° bond angles.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Understand the structure of SO$_3$.
SO$_3$ (sulfur trioxide) has a trigonal planar structure with sulfur in the center and three oxygen atoms around it. The sulfur atom forms three bonds with oxygen atoms.
Step 2: Identify the electron domains around sulfur.
- Sulfur in SO$_3$ has 3 bonding pairs of electrons and no lone pairs of electrons. Therefore, the number of electron domains around sulfur is 3.
Step 3: Determine the hybridization.
- When there are 3 electron domains, the hybridization of the central atom is sp$^2$.
Step 4: Apply to the options.
The hybridization of sulfur in SO$_3$ is sp$^2$, so option (A) is correct.
Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{sp}^2} \]