Hybridization of S & F: Atomic Orbitals & Electrons

[rice1am]

Homework Statement

1. What atomic orbital/orbitals are available for bonding for S (Sulfur) and F (Fluorine)?
2. How many electrons are in an orbital formed from the overlapping of two atomic orbitals, which are different?

Homework Equations

N/A

The Attempt at a Solution

1. For this question, I inferred that only one P orbital was available for bonding in Fluroine, since it is in group 17 and whatnot. As for Sulfur, I'm guessing that 1 s and 1 p orbital would only be available; but then again, this question is quite confusing.

2. For this question, don't the answers vary? Doesn't it depend on what two atomic orbitals your overlapping with?

Sorry, I know these questions are a bit confusing; the whole quantum idea is crazy! :S

 

[Umbra Lupis]

What compound are you looking at?

The compound that comes to mind is that of SF₆ in which you will need to invoke d orbitals as well. That would be the so called "sp³d²" hybridization; but don't tell a quantum field theorist...