Determining Hybridization and Formal Charges in Molecules

Hybridization

Type of orbital mixing in atoms.

Electron Domain

Regions of electron density around a central atom.

Formal Charge

Hypothetical charge assuming equal sharing of electrons.

Lewis Structure

Diagram showing bonding between atoms in a molecule.

Sp³ Hybridization

Hybridization involving four electron domains.

Bonding Electron Pairs

Electrons involved in chemical bonds.

Lone Pairs

Non-bonding pairs of electrons on an atom.

Central Atom

Atom in a molecule bonded to multiple others.

Preferred Structure

Most stable Lewis structure based on formal charges.

Electronegativity

Tendency of an atom to attract electrons.

Molecular Geometry

Three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in a molecule.

Bonding Pairs

Pairs of electrons shared between two atoms.

Non-zero Formal Charge

Indicates charge distribution in a molecule.

Valence Electrons

Electrons in the outermost shell of an atom.

Formal Charge Calculation

Valence electrons - (non-bonding electrons + 1/2 bonding electrons).

Negative Formal Charge Preference

Preferred on more electronegative atom in structures.

Double Bonds

Two pairs of electrons shared between atoms.

Triple Bonds

Three pairs of electrons shared between atoms.

Bonding Domains

Includes bonding pairs and lone pairs.

Molecular Ion

Charged species composed of two or more atoms.

Electrostatic Forces

Attractive forces between charged particles.

London Forces

Weak intermolecular forces due to temporary dipoles.