Question

What is the hybridization state of \(\mathrm{Si}\) in \(\mathrm{SiH}_{4}\) and in \(\mathrm{H}_{3} \mathrm{Si}-\mathrm{SiH}_{3} ?\)

Short answer

The hybridization state of Si in SiH4 and in H3Si-SiH3 is sp3.

Step-by-step solution

Identify the Steric Number of Si in SiH4

Steric number is given by the formula \[SN = Number\ of\ sigma-bonds + Number\ of\ lone\ pairs + Number\ of\ single\ electrons\]. In SiH4, Si is bonded to four H atoms through sigma bonds. It has no lone pairs of electrons or unpaired electrons. So, the steric number of Si in SiH4 would be \(4+0+0=4\).

Determine the Hybridization of Si in SiH4

The hybridization is determined by the steric number. If the steric number(SN) is 4, the hybridization is sp3. So, the hybridization of Si in SiH4 is sp3.

Identify the Steric Number of Si in H3Si-SiH3

In H3Si-SiH3, each Si atom is bonded to three H atoms and one Si atom, all through sigma bonds. There are no lone pairs of electrons or unpaired electrons. So, the steric number of Si in H3Si-SiH3 would be \(4+0+0=4\).

Determine the Hybridization of Si in H3Si-SiH3

As highlighted before, if the steric number(SN) is 4, the hybridization is sp3. So, the hybridization of Si in H3Si-SiH3 is sp3.