Prediction of Particle Geometries Based on Atomic Orbital Hybridization

TOPIC 6. Prediction of the Geometrical Shape of Particles.

Discussion:

1. What properties of covalent bonds are you familiar with?

2. Which property of covalent bonds determines the spatial configuration (geometry) of particles?
   To describe the spatial structure of molecules, it is most convenient to use the atomic orbital hybridization model proposed by the American scientist L. Pauling.

3. What is atomic orbital hybridization?

4. What types of hybridization are you familiar with?

II. Generalization and Systematization of Students' Knowledge.

1. Independent work tasks: Consider the spatial configuration of particles:

   1. Beryllium fluoride – BeF2.
      Figure 1. Electron structure of the BeF2 molecule.

   sp-hybridization of AOs; 2 σ-bonds
   The BeF2 molecule is linear, with a bond angle of 180°.

   2. Boron chloride – BCl3.
      Figure 2. Electron structure of the BCl3 molecule.

   sp2-hybridization of AOs; 3 σ-bonds
   The BCl3 molecule is flat and triangular, with a bond angle of 120°.