`XeF_(2)` molecule is linear molecule but it is `sp^(3)d` hybridized. Why?

Explanation

To understand why the XeF₂ molecule is linear despite being sp³d hybridized, let's break down the explanation step by step:

### Step 1: Determine the Valence Electrons
- Xenon (Xe) is the central atom in the molecule XeF₂. It has 8 valence electrons.
- Each fluorine (F) atom contributes 1 valence electron. Since there are 2 fluorine atoms, they contribute a total of 2 valence electrons.

**Total Valence Electrons = Valence Electrons of Xe + Valence Electrons from F**
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