Describe the shapes of BF 3 and BH 4 – . Assign the hybridization of boron in these species.

Question

Philoid · Accepted Answer

(i) BH₄^-

Boron-hydride ion (BH4 ^–) is formed by the sp³ hybridization of boron orbitals. Therefore, it is a tetrahedral structure.

(ii) BF₃

As a result of its small size and high electronegativity, boron tends to form monomeric covalent halides. These halides have a planar triangular geometry. This triangular shape is formed by the overlap of three sp² hybridized orbitals of boron with the sp orbitals of 3 halogen atoms. Boron is sp² hybridized in BF₃.

Describe the shapes of BF3 and BH4–. Assign the hybridization of boron in these species.

Describe the shapes of BF₃ and BH₄^–. Assign the hybridization of boron in these species.