Question

important facts about sp3d hybridisation.

Answer 1

A molecule in which the central atom is sp3d2sp3d2 hybridized (SF6SFX6), for example, acquires an octahedral shape, which can be explained by assuming that the hybrid orbitals arrange themselves to minimize repulsion amongst themselves. An octahedron makes sense, it the only way to symmetrically arrange six hybrid orbitals on an atom. The case for an sp3sp3 hybridized atom is similar which from a similar logic can be explained to have a tetrahedral geometry.

But consider the case of sp3dsp3d hybrid orbitals which arrange themselves in a trigonal bypyramidal shape (PCl5PClX5). This is a gross breach of the usual adherence to symmetry. Two bonds are at the axial location and three at the equatorial location. In fact, the axial bonds are slightly longer than the equatorial ones. The case for sp3d3sp3d3 hybridization is similar (IF7IFX7) with five orbitals crammed into the equatorial plane and two sticking out above and below it. Why are these arrangements preferred in favor of one with a simple symmetric arrangement of orbitals (which, I think, would minimize the repulsion)?