Question

Some of the properties of the two species, $NO_3^-$ and ${H_3O^+}$ are described below. Which one of them is correct?

• A. Isostructural with same hybridization for the central atom
• B. Isostructural with different hybridization for the central atom
• C. Similar in hybridization for the central atom with different structures
• D. Dissimilar in hybridization for the central atom with different structures

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

To determine the correct statement about the species NO_3^− (nitrate ion) and H_3O^+ (hydronium ion), we need to analyze their structures and hybridization.

1. Structure and Hybridization of NO_3^−:
   • NO_3^− is a planar ion with trigonal planar geometry.
   • The central atom is nitrogen (N).
   • Nitrogen in NO_3^− is sp² hybridized because it forms three sigma bonds with oxygen atoms and has one delocalized π-bond over three equivalent resonating structures.
2. Structure and Hybridization of H_3O^+:
   • H_3O^+ has a tetrahedral geometry, but due to the lone pair, it takes on a pyramidal shape, similar to ammonia.
   • The central atom is oxygen (O).
   • Oxygen in H_3O^+ is sp³ hybridized as it forms three sigma bonds with hydrogen atoms and has one lone pair of electrons.

From the analysis:

• NO_3^− has sp² hybridization, while H_3O^+ has sp³ hybridization.
• Their structural geometries are different: trigonal planar for NO_3^− and pyramidal for H_3O^+.

Hence, the correct option is: Dissimilar in hybridization for the central atom with different structures.