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What is the hybridization of the fluorine atom in SF₄?

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Final answer:

The fluorine atom in SF4 typically does not undergo hybridization and uses its unhybridized p orbitals to form bonds. However, the sulfur atom in SF4 is sp³d hybridized. If asking about fluorine's hybridization generally, it's often considered sp³ due to one bond with three lone pairs.

Step-by-step explanation:

The hybridization of the fluorine atom in SF4 (sulfur tetrafluoride) is not discussed as often in the context of the entire molecule, but it can be deduced based on its bonding. In SF4, the sulfur atom is the central atom and it is surrounded by four fluorine atoms with a lone pair of electrons as well. The sulfur atom undergoes sp3d hybridization to accommodate five electron pairs - four bonding pairs with fluorine and one lone pair. The fluorine atoms, being highly electronegative, form bonds using their unhybridized p orbitals. These atoms do not typically undergo hybridization in such compounds. However, if the question specifically asks for hybridization of a fluorine atom in a general sense, it's normally sp3 as it forms one bond to the sulfur and possesses three lone pairs.

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