Question

Which of the following sets are not correctly matched? 
i. XeF₄ - sp³
ii. SF₄ - sp³d
iii. SO₃ - sp²
iv. SnCl₂ - sp

• A. ii, iii
• B. i, iv
• C. i, ii
• D. iii, iv

Hint:

When identifying hybridization, consider both the electron domain geometry and the actual molecular geometry, including lone pairs and bonded atoms.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Analyzing the hybridization of each molecule:
- XeF$_4$ (Xenon Tetrafluoride) typically exhibits an \( sp^3d^2 \) hybridization due to its square planar geometry with two lone pairs.
- SF$_4$ (Sulfur Tetrafluoride) is correctly matched with \( sp^3d \) due to its see-saw shape.
- SO$_3$ (Sulfur Trioxide) correctly exhibits \( sp^2 \) hybridization, forming a trigonal planar structure with no lone pairs on the sulfur.
- SnCl$_2$ (Tin(II) Chloride) should be \( sp^2 \) or \( sp^3 \), depending on its molecular geometry, not \( sp \).
The mismatched pairs are i (XeF$_4$) and iv (SnCl$_2$).