How does hybridization of atomic orbitals allow us to reconcile valence bond theory with vsepr theory?

Question: How does hybridization of atomic orbitals allow us to reconcile valence bond theory with vsepr theory?

Hybridization of atomic orbitals is a concept that bridges the gap between Valence Bond Theory (VBT) and the Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion (VSEPR) theory, providing a comprehensive understanding of molecular geometry. VBT focuses on the bonds formed between atoms through the overlapping of atomic orbitals, while VSEPR theory predicts the shapes of molecules based on the repulsion between electron pairs. Hybridization reconciles these two by mathematically combining atomic orbitals to form new, equivalent hybrid orbitals that are oriented in a way that minimizes electron pair repulsion, thus satisfying both theories. For instance, in water (H2O), the oxygen atom undergoes sp3 hybridization, which allows for the formation of two sigma bonds with hydrogen atoms and two lone pairs, leading to a bent molecular shape as predicted by VSEPR theory. This hybridization process not only explains the number of bonds and their strengths as per VBT but also aligns with the geometrical structure predicted by VSEPR theory.

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