Final answer:
Hybridization in chemistry is the mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals. It allows for the formation of new molecular bonds.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hybridization in chemistry is the mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals. These hybrid orbitals have different shapes and energies from the original atomic orbitals, allowing for the formation of new molecular bonds. For example, in the case of sp3 hybridization, one s orbital and three p orbitals mix together to form four sp3 hybrid orbitals, which are then used to form four sigma bonds in molecules like methane (CH4).
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