Question

Predict the geometry of sulfur dichloride \(\left(\mathrm{SCl}_{2}\right)\) and the hybridization of the sulfur atom.

Short answer

The geometry of sulfur dichloride \(\mathrm{SCl}_{2}\) is bent shape or V-shaped and the hybridization of the sulfur atom is sp3.

Step-by-step solution

Determine Valence Electrons and draw the Electron Dot Structure

Sulfur has 6 valence electrons, and each Chlorine atom has 7 valence electrons. So, for \(\mathrm{SCl}_{2}\), the total number of valence electrons is \(6 + 2*7 = 20\). The Lewis dot structure can be drawn with Sulfur at the center (as it is less electronegative) and a Chlorine atom on each side, each bonded to the sulfur by a single bond, and the remaining 4 electrons placed as lone pairs on the sulfur atom.

Determine the Electron Pair Geometry and Molecular Geometry

The sulfur atom is surrounded by 4 regions of electron density, including 2 single bond pairs and 2 lone pairs. These 4 pairs try to position themselves as far apart as possible to minimize repulsion. Hence, the electron-pair geometry is tetrahedral. However, the molecular geometry is determined by the positions of the atoms only, which forms a V-shape or bent shape.

Determine the Hybridization

The hybridization of the atom can be determined from the electron pair geometry. In this case, with 4 regions of electron density around the sulfur atom, the sulfur atom is sp3 hybridized.