Why do #SP^2# hybrid orbitals form?

1 Answer
David Drayer
Oct 15, 2017

In order to allow more bonds and achieve greater stability

Explanation:

For example Boron forms three bonds when it hybridizes to #sp^2# form. This allows the formation of molecules like # BCl_3#

Without hybridization Boron has the electronic configuration of
# 1s^2 2s^2 2p^1# Paired electrons like the #2s^2# have difficulty bonding because of the Pauli exclusion principle. Hybridizing allows the #2s^2# electrons to be used for bonding.

When Boron can form three bonds it is more stable than when it can form only one bond using the #2p^1# electron. So hybridization allows for greater bonding and greater stability.

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