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Chapter 11: Problem 18

The crystalline form of borax has (a) tetranuclear \(\left[\mathrm{B}_{4} \mathrm{O}_{5}(\mathrm{OH})_{4}\right]^{2-}\) unit (b) all boron atoms in the same plane (c) equal number of \(s p^{2}\) and \(s p^{3}\) hybridized boron atoms (d) one terminal hydroxide per boron atom

Short Answer

Expert verified
Option (c) is true: borax has equal numbers of \(sp^2\) and \(sp^3\) hybridized boron atoms.

Step by step solution

01

Identify the Structure

The crystalline form of borax consists of the tetranuclear unit \([ ext{B}_4 ext{O}_5( ext{OH})_4]^{2-}\), where four boron atoms are involved in the compound structure. Each boron contributes to the formation of this specific unit within borax.
02

Analyze Boron Hybridization

In the structure \([ ext{B}_4 ext{O}_5( ext{OH})_4]^{2-}\), boron atoms typically exhibit different hybridizations. Normally, some boron atoms are \(sp^2\) hybridized, while others are \(sp^3\) hybridized depending on their bonding environment within the structure.
03

Balance the Hybridization Types

The compound must have equal numbers of \(sp^2\) and \(sp^3\) hybridized boron atoms to satisfy condition (c). This means two boron atoms must be \(sp^2\) hybridized, and two must be \(sp^3\) hybridized, balancing the overall structural hybridization.
04

Count Hydroxide Groups

Each boron in \([ ext{B}_4 ext{O}_5( ext{OH})_4]^{2-}\) does not have a terminal hydroxide. Instead, the structure features shared hydroxide groups among borons and connected oxygen atoms, confirming that condition (d) is false.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

Hybridization of Boron
In chemistry, hybridization is a concept to describe the mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals. These hybrid orbitals help explain the shape and bonding properties of molecules. Boron, being a group 13 element, typically forms three covalent bonds. Due to its electronic configuration, boron can display different types of hybridization.
  • sp2 Hybridization: In this type, boron uses one of its s orbitals and two of its p orbitals to form three sp2 hybrid orbitals. This leads to a trigonal planar geometry with a bond angle of 120掳.
  • sp3 Hybridization: Here, boron mixes one s orbital with three p orbitals, resulting in four sp3 hybrid orbitals. This corresponds to a tetrahedral geometry, giving a bond angle of approximately 109.5掳.
In the crystalline structure of borax, boron exhibits both sp2 and sp3 hybridizations. This alternating hybridization enables the formation of complex structures, such as the tetranuclear unit in borax. Understanding these hybrids is crucial as they influence the geometry and bonding characteristics of boron compounds.
Crystalline Borax
Borax, also known as sodium borate, forms a crystalline solid which contains the tetranuclear \([\mathrm{B}_4\mathrm{O}_5(\mathrm{OH})_4]^{2-}\) unit. This structure is intrinsic to the chemical makeup of borax and provides its physical characteristics.
Borax's crystalline form is important for several reasons:
  • Complex Geometry: The arrangement of boron atoms leads to a compact, three-dimensional network. Each boron within the tetranuclear unit is strategically positioned to share bonds with adjacent oxygen atoms, forming a stable framework.
  • Balance of Hybridizations: The crystalline structure comprises an equal number of sp2 and sp3 hybridized boron atoms. This balance is key, ensuring structural integrity and uniformity across the compound.
  • Shared Structural Units: Unlike in simple molecules, the hydroxide groups in borax are shared, constructing an intricate lattice. Each hydroxide bridges boron atoms, differing from a one-to-one assignment of hydroxide groups seen in simpler models.
The spatial configuration and shared hydroxide groups elevate borax鈥檚 utility in industrial and household applications, making it an efficient cleaning agent, a buffering compound, and more.
Boron Compounds
Boron, a versatile element, forms numerous compounds with unique properties and applications. These compounds find uses in areas from industrial applications to consumer products.
Some important aspects of boron compounds include:
  • Diverse Hybridization: Boron compounds often display varying hybridizations, impacting their molecular geometry and reactivity. The difference in hybridization directly influences the physical properties of the compounds.
  • Strong Electron Deficiency: Boron compounds are typically electron-deficient, as boron can only give three covalent bonds, missing the complete octet. This electron deficiency makes boron compounds interesting for research, particularly in reactions that involve electron donation or acceptance.
  • Utility and Versatility: From borax in household products to boronic acids in pharmaceuticals, boron compounds demonstrate applicability across numerous fields. They are integral in agriculture, pyrotechnics, glass manufacturing, and more.
Understanding boron compounds helps in leveraging their properties for innovative solutions in technology, manufacturing, and more.

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