In which one of the following pairs the central atoms exhibit sp2 hybridization ?
- BF3 and NO2-
- NH2- and BF3
- NH2- and H2O
- H2O and NO2
Answer
(1) BF3 and NO2-
Solution
Steric number = σ bond pairs + lone pairs on the central atom; 3 means sp2 and 4 means sp3.
BF3: 3 bp + 0 lp = 3, so sp2
NO2-: 2 bp + 1 lp = 3, so sp2
NH2- and H2O: 2 bp + 2 lp = 4, so sp3
Hence only pair (1) has both central atoms sp2; (2), (3) and (4) each contain an sp3 species.
Answer: (1)