In which of the following molecules the central atom does not have sp3 hybridization?
- CH4
- SF4
- BF4-
- NH4+
Answer
(2) SF4
Solution
Number of hybrid orbitals = bond pairs + lone pairs on the central atom.
CH4: 4 bp + 0 lp = 4 ⇒ sp3
SF4: 4 bp + 1 lp = 5 ⇒ sp3d (see-saw)
BF4-: 4 bp + 0 lp = 4 ⇒ sp3
NH4+: 4 bp + 0 lp = 4 ⇒ sp3
∴ The central atom of SF4 is not sp3 hybridised.
Answer: (2)