What is the hybridization of the central atom?

A. sp

B. sp3d

C. sp3d2

D. sp2

E. sp3

The correct option is E. sp3

Explanation:

You can find the hybridization of an atom by finding its steric number:

The steric number = the number of atoms bonded to the atom + the number of lone pairs the atom has.

If the steric number is 4, the atom is sp3 hybridized.

If the steric number is 3, the atom is sp2 hybridized.

If the steric number is 2, the atom is sp hybridized.

In a compound like H2O, the central atom is Oxygen (H-O-H); it has a steric number of 4. (See above) and so the hybridization is sp3