A hybridized atomic orbital can contain or participate in which of the following?

• A. Formation of sigma (σ) bonds
• B. Only ionic bonding
• C. Formation of pi (π) bonds
• D. Only non-bonding electron pairs

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that hybridized atomic orbitals are formed by the combination of atomic orbitals (such as s and p orbitals) to create new orbitals that are oriented in specific directions to maximize bonding.
2. Recall that sigma (\sigma) bonds are formed by the head-on overlap of orbitals, which is exactly what hybridized orbitals are designed to do, allowing strong directional bonding between atoms.
3. Recognize that pi (\pi) bonds are formed by the side-to-side overlap of unhybridized p orbitals, not hybridized orbitals, so hybrid orbitals do not directly form pi bonds.
4. Note that ionic bonding involves the transfer of electrons rather than the overlap of orbitals, so hybridized orbitals are not involved in ionic bonding.
5. Understand that non-bonding electron pairs (lone pairs) can occupy hybrid orbitals, but the question asks about participation in bonding, so the primary role of hybrid orbitals is in the formation of sigma (\sigma) bonds.