Identify the hybridization of the nitrogen atom in NH3.

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Question: Identify the hybridization of the nitrogen atom in NH3.

Options:

Correct Answer: sp3

Solution:

The nitrogen atom in NH3 is sp3 hybridized, forming three N-H bonds and one lone pair.

Identify the hybridization of the nitrogen atom in NH3.

Identify the hybridization of the nitrogen atom in NH3.

Step 1: Identify the nitrogen atom in the NH3 molecule.
Step 2: Count the number of bonds nitrogen forms with hydrogen atoms. In NH3, nitrogen forms three N-H bonds.
Step 3: Determine if there are any lone pairs on the nitrogen atom. In NH3, there is one lone pair on nitrogen.
Step 4: Add the number of bonds (3) to the number of lone pairs (1). This gives a total of 4 regions of electron density around the nitrogen atom.
Step 5: Use the total number of regions of electron density to determine hybridization. 4 regions correspond to sp3 hybridization.

Hybridization – The concept of hybridization involves the mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals, which can explain the geometry and bonding of molecules.
Molecular Geometry – Understanding the molecular geometry of NH3 helps in visualizing the arrangement of bonds and lone pairs around the nitrogen atom.