Question

How does hybridization relate to molecular geometry?

Answer 1

We need to know that hybridization is the method of mixing two atomic orbitals having the same energy levels, and there is a formation of degenerated new molecular orbitals. It is explained on the basis of quantum mechanics. In the time of hybridization, the atomic orbitals with similar energy will be mixed. In the case of $s{p^2}$ –orbitals, one s-orbital and two p-orbitals are mixing.

Complete answer:
As we know that hybridization is used for the explanation of molecular geometry. And the VSEPR theory is used for the prediction of geometry. The VSEPR theory is also known as Valence shell electron pair repulsion theory. It defines the geometry of individual molecules by using the number of pairs of electrons present around the central atoms. For example, for sp hybridization, the shape is linear, $s{p^2} \to$ trigonal planar, $s{p^3} \to$ tetrahedral, $s{p^3}d \to$ trigonal pyramidal and $s{p^3}{d^2} \to$ octahedral.
Hence, we can say that the definite shape of the compound can be found by the combination of VSEPR theory and hybridization. But the hybridization is only applicable for the elements present in the second period of the periodic table and especially for carbon.
Consider an example, for methane, the hybridization is $s{p^3}$ with bond angle $109.5^\circ$. Therefore, we can say that the hybridization is related to molecular geometry.

Note:
We have to remember that the hybridization of orbital hybridization is a method of mixing atomic orbital with new hybrid orbitals having different shapes, energy than the atomic orbital components. In the case of $s{p^2}$ and $s{p^3}$ hybridization expresses the number of s orbital and p orbital and there is a formation of new degenerate hybrid orbitals. And hybridization is related with molecular geometry.