Which of the following statements correctly defines hybrid orbitals?

• A. Hybrid orbitals are formed by the combination of atomic orbitals on the same atom to produce new orbitals with different shapes and energies suitable for bonding.
• B. Hybrid orbitals are created by mixing molecular orbitals from different molecules.
• C. Hybrid orbitals are atomic orbitals that remain unchanged during bond formation.
• D. Hybrid orbitals are formed when electrons move from one atom to another during a chemical reaction.

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that hybrid orbitals are a concept used to explain the shapes and bonding properties of molecules that cannot be described by simple atomic orbitals alone.
2. Recall that hybridization involves the mixing of atomic orbitals (such as s, p, and sometimes d orbitals) on the same atom to form new orbitals called hybrid orbitals.
3. Recognize that these hybrid orbitals have different shapes and energies compared to the original atomic orbitals, allowing atoms to form bonds in specific geometries that match observed molecular shapes.
4. Note that hybrid orbitals are not formed by combining orbitals from different atoms or molecules, nor do they remain unchanged during bonding; instead, they are specifically created on a single atom to facilitate bonding.
5. Conclude that the correct definition of hybrid orbitals is that they are formed by the combination of atomic orbitals on the same atom to produce new orbitals with different shapes and energies suitable for bonding.