Question

Hybridization of silicon atom in silica is:
(A) sp
(B) $s{{p}^{2}}$
(C) $s{{p}^{3}}$
(D) $s{{p}^{3}}d$

Answer 1

Hint: As we know that hybridization is a hypothetical idea which tells us about the fusion of atomic orbitals to form newly hybridized orbitals which in turn influence the molecular geometry as well as its bonding properties. So here we have to tell the hybridization of Silicon atoms in silica.

Complete answer:
Let us discuss about silica and hybridization followed by finding the hybridization of silicon atom in silica compound as follows:-
-Silica: it is also known as silicon dioxide which is its smallest molecular constituent. It is most commonly found in the form of quartz and also in various living organisms. Its chemical formula is ${{(Si{{O}_{2}})}_{n}}$. It is one of the most complex and also an abundant material present on earth, existing as a compound in several ores, minerals and also as a synthetic product. Its structure is shown below:-

Above structure is a typical subunit of silica at low pressure conditions. Here each silicon (Si) atom is single bonded to four oxygen atoms.
-Hybridization: It is a concept which tells us about the fusion of atomic orbitals to form newly hybridized orbitals which in turn influence the molecular geometry as well as its bonding properties. It helps us to explain the shape of the molecule as the angles between bonds are almost equal to the angles between hybrid orbitals.
-When an atom is connected to different atoms by 4 single bonds, it forms tetrahedral structure with the involvement of 4 orbitals that are one s and three p-orbitals. They hybridize together and form $s{{p}^{3}}$ hybrid orbitals.

Since silicon is connected to oxygen by four single bonds in a silica compound, therefore hybridization of silicon atoms is (C)$s{{p}^{3}}$.

Note:
-Remember that hybridization is preferred in order to decrease the orbital energy of p-orbitals and bring directional character in s-orbitals.
-Also each hybrid orbital has the same energy level for the same hybridization.