Valence bond theory predicts that tin will use _____ hybrid orbitals in SnF₅^-.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In SnF₅^-, tin (Sn) forms bonds with sulfur (S) and phosphorus (P). To determine the hybridization of tin, we count the number of bonds (single, double, or triple) around the central atom and add them to the number of lone pairs present. Here, tin forms three single bonds and has one lone pair. Thus, it has a total of four electron domains that need to be hybridized. The hybridization of tin is therefore sp3, which corresponds to option C: sp³.

Valence Bond Theory Predicts That Tin Will Use _____ Hybrid