Hybridization is defined as an intermixing of a set of atomic orbitals of slightly different

energies, thereby forming a new set of orbitals having equivalent energies and shapes.

For example, one 2s-orbital hybridizes with two 2p-orbitals of carbon to form three new

${\mathrm{sp}}^2$ hybrid orbitals.

These hybrid orbitals have minimum repulsion between their electron pairs and thus, are

more stable. Hybridization helps indicate the geometry of the molecule.

Shape of sp hybrid orbitals: sp hybrid orbitals have a linear shape. They are formed by

the intermixing of s and p orbitals as:

Shape of ${\mathrm{SP}}^2$ hybrid orbitals:

sp${}^2$ hybrid orbitals are formed as a result of the intermixing of one s-orbital and two

2porbitals. The hybrid orbitals are oriented in a trigonal planar arrangement as:

Shape of ${\mathrm{sp}}^3$ hybrid orbitals:

Four sp${}^3$ hybrid orbitals are formed by intermixing one s-orbital with three p-orbitals.

The four sp${}^3$ hybrid orbitals are arranged in the form of a tetrahedron as: