The 'sp' hybridization refers to a specific type of atomic orbital hybridization that involves the mixing of one s orbital and one p orbital from the same atom to form two equivalent sp hybrid orbitals. This hybridization is significant because it leads to linear molecular geometries, which can explain the bonding patterns seen in molecules like acetylene (C2H2) and carbon dioxide (CO2). The sp hybridization affects bond angles, molecular shape, and overall reactivity of compounds, illustrating the connection between electronic structure and molecular geometry.
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