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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