Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Hybridization
Hybridization is the process of combining atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals that can accommodate the bonding requirements of a molecule. In the case of carbon, for example, the 2s and three 2p orbitals can hybridize to form four equivalent sp³ hybrid orbitals, which are used to form sigma bonds with other atoms.
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Types of Hybrid Orbitals
There are several types of hybrid orbitals, including sp, sp², and sp³. The type of hybridization depends on the number of electron domains around the central atom. For instance, sp hybridization occurs in linear geometries with two electron domains, while sp³ hybridization occurs in tetrahedral geometries with four electron domains, as seen in molecules like C₂H₅NO.
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Molecular Geometry
Molecular geometry refers to the three-dimensional arrangement of atoms in a molecule, which is influenced by the types of hybrid orbitals involved. The geometry helps predict the bond angles and overall shape of the molecule, which is crucial for understanding reactivity and properties. In C₂H₅NO, the presence of different types of bonds (C-H and O-H) will affect its hybridization and geometry.
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Molecular Geometry with Two Electron Groups