SP3 hybridization is a type of orbital hybridization in chemistry. It occurs when one s orbital and three p orbitals of an atom mix to form four equivalent hybrid orbitals. This type of hybridization is commonly seen in molecules with a tetrahedral geometry, such as methane (CH4) and ammonia (NH3).
Here's a brief overview:
- The s orbital and three p orbitals of an atom are combined to form four sp3 hybrid orbitals.
- Each sp3 hybrid orbital has a tetrahedral shape and is oriented in a specific direction.
- The four sp3 hybrid orbitals are equivalent and have the same energy.
- SP3 hybridization is typically seen in molecules with a single central atom bonded to four other atoms.
Some key characteristics of sp3 hybridization include:
- Tetrahedral shape
- Four equivalent hybrid orbitals
- Single central atom bonded to four other atoms
- Commonly seen in molecules like methane (CH4