Question

Which type of overlapping is present in $S{O_3}$?
A.$p\pi - p\pi$
B.$p\pi - d\pi$
C.$d\pi - d\pi$
D.Both A and B

Answer 1

The hybridization of $S{O_3}$ is $sp$ for the central sulphur atom. At the same time the hybridization of oxygen is $s{p^2}$. Also, in the $S{O_3}$ molecule there are pi and sigma bonds present.

Complete step by step answer:
This question can be solved by using the concept of hybridization, so let’s start with discussing a little about hybridization for better understanding. Hybridization is the concept in which the atomic orbitals of the atoms fuse together to form the new orbitals. These new orbitals are known as hybridized orbitals and have different geometry and bonding properties.
Coming to the question, we are asked about the type of overlap present in $S{O_3}$. Going by the concept of hybridization we came to know that in the $S{O_3}$ molecule there are pi and sigma bonds present. The hybridization of $S{O_3}$ is $sp$ for the central sulphur atom. At the same time the hybridization of oxygen is $s{p^2}$. Due to this there are overlapping of $p$ and $d$ orbitals which leads to the $p\pi - p\pi$ and $p\pi - d\pi$ overlapping.
Hence the answer to this question is option D. Both A and B.
$\therefore$ Option D (Both A and B) is a correct answer.

Note:
The changes brought by hybridization tells us about how strongly the two atoms are connected with each other. Also the concept of hybridization is based on the covalent bonds and not on the ionic bonds. Gaseous sulphur trioxide $\left( {S{O_3}} \right)$ having trigonal planar geometry with bond angle ${120^ \circ }$ and $S{O_3}$ belongs to the ${D_{3h}}$ point group. Dipole moment value of $S{O_3}$ is zero.