Chapter 9, Problem 39QP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The hybridization of central nitrogen atom in the azide ion is to be determined.

Concept Introduction:

Hybridization is the combining of atomic orbitals to form hybrid orbitals.

To determine hybridization of an atom, first draw the Lewis structure of the molecule.

Find the number of electron domains around an atom to get the number of hybrid orbitals used by the atom for bonding.

When atomic orbitals combine, they form equal number of hybrid orbitals.

The $\text{s}$ orbital combines with one, two, or three $p$ orbitals to form $sp,s{p}^2,\text{ or }s{p}^3$ hybrid orbitals, respectively.