Question

Write the neutral molecule in which the central atom is sp³d² hybridised.

Answer 1

1. A good example of a neutral molecule in which the central atom exhibits sp³d² hybridisation is sulfur hexafluoride (SF₆).
2. In this molecule, sulfur is the central atom and is surrounded by six fluorine atoms.
3. To form six equivalent sigma bonds with the six fluorine atoms, sulfur undergoes sp³d² hybridisation, using one 3s orbital, three 3p orbitals, and two 3d orbitals.
4. This hybridisation results in six sp³d² hybrid orbitals arranged in an octahedral geometry, allowing for maximum separation between bonding pairs to minimise electron pair repulsion.

Since all valence electrons of sulfur are involved in bonding and the molecule is electrically neutral, SF₆ is a perfect example of a neutral molecule with sp³d² hybridisation.