Orbital Hybridisation: Myth or Misconception?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the validity of orbital hybridization in quantum chemistry, specifically addressing misconceptions about its representation. Participants assert that orbital hybridization accurately describes the probability distribution of electrons, challenging the notion that it is merely a theoretical construct. The consensus is that while the visual representation of orbitals may seem simplistic, the underlying statistical mathematics supports the theory. Overall, the discussion reinforces that orbital hybridization is a legitimate concept in understanding electron behavior.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with atomic orbitals, specifically s and p orbitals
  • Knowledge of probability clouds in electron distribution
  • Basic grasp of hybridization theory in chemistry
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the mathematical foundations of orbital hybridization
  • Explore the implications of hybrid orbitals in molecular geometry
  • Study the role of quantum mechanics in electron behavior
  • Examine experimental evidence supporting orbital hybridization theories
USEFUL FOR

Chemistry students, educators, and professionals interested in quantum chemistry and molecular structure, particularly those seeking to deepen their understanding of electron behavior and hybridization concepts.

RK7
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Is it basically wrong? It just seems like hand-waving...
 
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What do you mean?

afaik, orbital hybridisation is pretty much how it works. You got a space of probability where you can find an electron or set of electrons. The electron(s) in question is/are essentially everywhere in that cloud at once. It's like a probability cloud.

All that stuff about neat, circular orbitals is what's wrong.
 
anisotropic said:
What do you mean?

afaik, orbital hybridisation is pretty much how it works. You got a space of probability where you can find an electron or set of electrons. The electron(s) in question is/are essentially everywhere in that cloud at once. It's like a probability cloud.

All that stuff about neat, circular orbitals is what's wrong.

I'm talking about an s orbital and 3 p orbitals nicely combining to make nice convenient orbitals which happen to point outwards tetrahedrally. I don't see how that works.
 
I haven't done orbital hybridisation in ages, but my guess is the orbitals are based on pure statistical math. Just because it doesn't make sense visually on first glance, doesn't mean it's wrong. Besides, most research likely supports the theory.

That being said, just looking at an s and 3 p orbitals, I can see how the resultant hybrid orbitals exist as they do.

Can anyone else chime in here?
 
RK7 said:
Is it basically wrong? It just seems like hand-waving...

No it's not wrong. Besides that, what precisely is your question?
 

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