Question

What is an example of orbital hybridization?

Answer 1

Methane (CH4) is an example of orbital hybridization.

Explanation:

Methane is an example of `sp^3` hybridization. When one s and 3 p orbitals get mixed or hybridized and form 4 `sp^3` hybridized orbitals, it is called `sp^3` hybridization. Carbon atom has 1 s and 3 p (Px, Py, Pz) orbitals in its outermost shell.So these 4 orbitals hybridize and form 4 `sp^3` hybridized orbitals. Each of these orbitals form a sigma bond (covalent bond) with one s orbital of hydrogen atom. Thus a methane molecule is formed.