Which type of hybrid orbitals is formed when three atomic orbitals are mixed together?

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

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that hybridization involves mixing atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals suitable for bonding in molecules.
2. Recall that the notation sp^n indicates the mixing of one s orbital and n p orbitals, so the total number of orbitals mixed is (1 + n).
3. Since the problem states that three atomic orbitals are mixed together, set up the equation: 1 (s orbital) + n (p orbitals) = 3 orbitals.
4. Solve for n: 1 + n = 3, which gives n = 2, meaning two p orbitals are mixed with one s orbital.
5. Therefore, the hybrid orbitals formed are sp^2 orbitals, which correspond to the mixing of one s and two p orbitals.