The hybrid orbitals used for bonding by Xe in the unstable XeF₂ molecule are ________ orbitals. A)sp² B)sp³ C)sp³d D)sp³d² E)sp

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Xe atom in XeF₂ molecule undergoes sp3d hybridization, forming five hybrid orbitals. Out of these, three hybrid orbitals combine with three p-orbitals of the fluorine atoms to form Xe-F sigma bonds. The remaining two hybrid orbitals form a lone pair of electrons, which occupy the two remaining hybrid orbitals. Therefore, the hybrid orbitals used for bonding by Xe in XeF₂ molecule are sp³d orbitals.

The Hybrid Orbitals Used for Bonding by Xe in the Unstable