Question

The hybridisation of sulphur in sulphur dioxide is

• A. sp
• B. $sp^3$
• C. $sp^2$
• D. $dsp^2$

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

$sp^2$

Answer 2

In $SO_2$, the Lewis-dot structure is Electron pairs at S = 2 ($\sigma$bonds) + 1 (lone-pair) = 3 $sp^2$ hybridised. NOTE $\pi$-bonded electrons are not present in hybrid orbitals, therefore not counted in electron pairs. Rather $\pi$ bonds are formed by lateral overlapping of pure p-orbitals.