What is meant by hybridisation of atomic orbitals? Describe the shape of `sp`,`sp^(2)`,`sp^(3)` hybrid orbitals.

Explanation

Hybridization is defined as an intermixing of a set of atomic orbitals of slightly different energies, thereby forming a new set of orbitals having equivalent energies and shapes. For example, one 2s-orbital hybridizes with two 2p-orbitals of carbon to form three new `sp^(2)` hybrid orbitals. These hybrid orbitals have minimum repulsion between their electron pairs and thus, are more stable. Hybridization helps indicate the geometry of the molecule.
Shape of sp hybrid orbitals: sp hybrid orbitals have a similar shape. They are formed by the intermixing of s and p orbitals as:

Shape of `sp^(2)` hybrid orbitals:
`sp^(2)` hybrid orbitals are formed as a result of hte intermixing of one s-orbital and two 2p-orbitals. The hybrid orbitals are oriented in a trigonal planar arragemebt as :

Shape of `sp^(3)` hybrid orbitals:
Four `sp^(3)` hybrid orbitals are formed by intermixing one s-orbital with three p-orbitals . The four `sp^(3)` hybrid orbitals are arranged in the form of a tetrahedron as :