Question

If a compound has octahedral geometry, what is the central atom’s hybridization?

• A. sp\(^2\)
• B. dsp\(^2\)
• C. sp\(^3\)d\(^2\)
• D. sp\(^3\)d\(^3\)

Hint:

In octahedral geometry, the hybridization of the central atom is \( sp^3d^2 \), using six orbitals.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

An octahedron has six identical bonding directions around the central atom, and producing six equivalent hybrid orbitals requires mixing one s orbital, three p orbitals, and two d orbitals together. That specific mix is called \( sp^3d^2 \) hybridization, option (C).