Which electron geometry is associated with an atom that has sp3 hybridization?

• A. Linear
• B. Tetrahedral
• C. Octahedral
• D. Trigonal planar

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that hybridization describes the mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals suitable for bonding.
2. Identify that sp3 hybridization means one s orbital and three p orbitals combine, resulting in four equivalent hybrid orbitals.
3. Understand that these four sp3 hybrid orbitals arrange themselves to minimize electron repulsion, which leads to a specific electron geometry.
4. Recognize that the arrangement minimizing repulsion for four electron groups is a tetrahedral geometry, with bond angles of approximately 109.5°.
5. Conclude that an atom with sp3 hybridization has a tetrahedral electron geometry.