Sp hybrid orbital

Definition

An sp hybrid orbital arises when one s orbital mixes with one p orbital in an atom to form two degenerate, linearly oriented orbitals. This hybridization occurs in molecules where a central atom forms two sigma bonds and results in a 180-degree bond angle.

Related terms

Sigma bond: A sigma bond is a type of covalent bond where electron density is concentrated along the axis connecting two atomic nuclei, allowing for free rotation around the bond axis.

Hybridization: Hybridization is the process of mixing atomic orbitals within an atom to produce new hybrid orbitals, which can form covalent bonds with enhanced directional properties.

Bond angle: The bond angle is the geometric angle formed between two adjacent bonds on the same atom, crucial for determining the shape of molecules