What is diagonal hybridisation?

Dear deeksha,

In this type of hybridization, the 2s and only one of the 2p (say 2p) orbitals hybridize forming two equivalent orbitals called sp or diagonal orbitals. The remaining two 2p orbitals are left in their original state.

The two 'sp' hybrid oibitals lie along a straight line and thus make an angle of 180° with each other. The two 2p orbitals, which are left in their original state lie in different planes at right angles to each other and also to the hybridized orbitals.

By observing the structure of a molecule it is possible to predict the state of hybridization of carbon.

• A carbon atom that is directly linked to four other atoms is sp³ hybridized.

• A carbon atom that is directly linked to three other atoms is sp² hybridized.

• A carbon atom is sp hybridized if it is directly linked to two other atoms.

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