Question

Sulphur reacts with chlorine in \(1: 2\) ratio and forms X. Hydrolysis of \(\mathrm{X}\) gives a sulphur compound \(\mathrm{Y}\). What is the hybridization state of central atom in the anion of Y? (a) sp \(^{3}\) (b) sp (c) \(\mathrm{sp}^{2}\) (d) \(\mathrm{sp}^{3} \mathrm{~d}\)

Short answer

The hybridization state is \( \text{sp}^3 \).

Step-by-step solution

Determine the chemical reaction

We know that sulphur reacts with chlorine in a 1:2 ratio. This indicates the formation of Sulphur dichloride (\( \text{SCl}_2 \)).

Identify Hydrolysis Product

When \( \text{SCl}_2 \) undergoes hydrolysis, it reacts with water to form Sulphurous acid (\( \text{H}_2\text{SO}_3 \)). This is the compound \( Y \).

Determine the Anion from Hydrolysis

Since \( \text{H}_2\text{SO}_3 \) is an acid, it dissociates to form the bisulfite anion \( \text{HSO}_3^- \). We need to find the hybridization of the sulphur in this anion.

Determine Hybridization of Sulphur

The sulphur in the \( \text{HSO}_3^- \) anion is bonded to three oxygens and has one lone pair, contributing to four regions of electron density around sulphur. Therefore, the hybridization is \( \text{sp}^3 \).

Key concepts

Sulphur Hybridization

Sulphur often reacts to form different chemical compounds, each with unique hybridization states, due to its flexible chemistry. In the context of sulphur dichloride ( SCl_2 ) and its reaction products, hybridization helps to explain the shape and bonding of sulphur atoms within molecules.
In the structure of the bisulfite ion ( HSO_3^- ), sulphur exhibits a hybridization state of sp^3 . This happens because the sulphur atom is bonded to three oxygen atoms and holds onto one lone pair of electrons. These combined account for four regions of electron density surrounding the sulphur atom.
This arrangement forms a tetrahedral geometry around the sulphur atom, typical of sp^3 hybridization. Understanding these hybridization states is crucial in predicting molecular shapes and angles in various chemical species.

Bisulfite Ion

The bisulfite ion, HSO_3^- , is an important concept in understanding sulphur chemistry. Formed when sulphurous acid ( H_2SO_3 ) dissociates, this ion plays a significant role in various chemical reactions. The sulphur atom in the bisulfite ion connects with three oxygen atoms, creating a complex ionic structure.
Features of the bisulfite ion include:

• Three bonds with oxygen: Two are single bonds, and one is a double bond.
• One hydrogen atom attached to an oxygen, giving the ion a negative charge.
• Sulphur-hydrogen bond responsible for the ionic nature of the molecule.

This distinct arrangement contributes to the acid-base characteristics of bisulfite, making it reactive and useful in various chemical processes. The knowledge of the bisulfite ion facilitates deeper exploration into acid-base reactions and sulphuric compounds.

Chemical Reaction Mechanism

The chemical reaction mechanisms involving sulphur, like those leading to bisulfite ion production, are fundamentally important for understanding how sulphur compounds interact with other molecules. Starting with the reaction of sulphur and chlorine, the process involves multiple steps leading to different products.
Initially, sulphur reacts with chlorine to form sulphur dichloride ( SCl_2 ), marking the primary synthesis step. This compound then undergoes hydrolysis—a reaction with water—yielding sulphurous acid ( H_2SO_3 ). From here, the acid dissociates, producing the bisulfite ion ( HSO_3^- ).
These mechanisms emphasize the interactions between sulphur's valence electrons and other atoms, determining the resultant molecular configurations. Each step highlights the transformation of bond types and electronic arrangements, an analytical insight into observing molecular processes. Understanding these mechanisms is vital for fields ranging from environmental chemistry to industrial applications.