Which type of hybrid orbitals are formed when one s orbital and three p orbitals combine?

• A. sp^2
• B. sp^3
• C. dsp^2
• D. sp

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that hybridization involves the mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals suitable for bonding in molecules.
2. Identify the orbitals involved: one s orbital and three p orbitals are combining.
3. Count the total number of orbitals combined: 1 (s) + 3 (p) = 4 orbitals.
4. Understand that when one s and three p orbitals combine, they form four equivalent hybrid orbitals called sp\^3 hybrid orbitals.
5. Note that sp\^2 hybridization involves one s and two p orbitals, sp involves one s and one p orbital, and dsp\^2 is related to d orbital involvement, so they do not apply here.