Recall that sp² hybridization occurs when an atom forms three sigma bonds or has three regions of electron density, typically involving one unhybridized p orbital that participates in a pi bond.
Examine the carbon atom in ethene (C₂H₄): each carbon forms three sigma bonds (two with hydrogens and one with the other carbon) and one pi bond (the double bond between the carbons), which corresponds to sp² hybridization.
Consider the oxygen atom in water (H₂O): oxygen forms two sigma bonds with hydrogens and has two lone pairs, resulting in four regions of electron density, which corresponds to sp³ hybridization, not sp².
Look at the nitrogen atom in ammonia (NH₃): nitrogen forms three sigma bonds with hydrogens and has one lone pair, totaling four regions of electron density, indicating sp³ hybridization.
Analyze the carbon atom in methane (CH₄): carbon forms four sigma bonds with hydrogens, which corresponds to sp³ hybridization.