Which set of hybrid orbitals is represented by a tetrahedral arrangement around a central atom?

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

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that hybridization describes the mixing of atomic orbitals on a central atom to form new hybrid orbitals that determine molecular geometry.
2. Identify the molecular geometry associated with the given hybridizations: sp corresponds to linear geometry, sp^2 corresponds to trigonal planar, sp^3 corresponds to tetrahedral, and sp^3d corresponds to trigonal bipyramidal.
3. Understand that a tetrahedral arrangement means the central atom forms four equivalent bonds directed toward the corners of a tetrahedron, which requires four hybrid orbitals.
4. Recognize that the sp^3 hybridization involves mixing one s orbital and three p orbitals, resulting in four equivalent sp^3 hybrid orbitals arranged tetrahedrally.
5. Conclude that the set of hybrid orbitals represented by a tetrahedral arrangement around a central atom is sp^3.