Are these two topics the same? Hybridization & Vsepr

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kabtq9s

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Isn't the VSEPR theory discussed in Princeton (Gen Chem)page 362, the same as the Orbital Hybridization theory in Princeton (Orgo) page 446 ?

Thanks
 
Isn't the VSEPR theory discussed in Princeton (Gen Chem)page 362, the same as the Orbital Hybridization theory in Princeton (Orgo) page 446 ?

Thanks

no. hybridization pertains to how atoms bond to each other, and the resulting stabilities and shapes. but VSEPR can apply to things like metal complexes, Fe(H2O)6 (3+), so what's the shape for something like that? can't use orbital hybridization for that, can you?
 
Thanks for your reply whiteshadodw

But I'm still confused. Don't both theories enable us to come up with the structure of the compound in question?

I still can't see a clear difference between the two topics.Excep that VSEPR is more specific, (ie. it does not only show us the Geometric Family like the Hybridization theory but also shows the specific structure in the designated family).
 
Thanks for your reply whiteshadodw

But I'm still confused. Don't both theories enable us to come up with the structure of the compound in question?

I still can't see a clear difference between the two topics.Excep that VSEPR is more specific, (ie. it does not only show us the Geometric Family like the Hybridization theory but also shows the specific structure in the designated family).

VSEPR utilizes hybridization theory so it is broader. However, hybridization theory is not synonymous with VSEPR theory because things like sp2, sp3d, etc, can't explain the shapes of coordination compounds and the like, while VSEPR can.
 
VSEPR utilizes hybridization theory so it is broader. However, hybridization theory is not synonymous with VSEPR theory because things like sp2, sp3d, etc, can't explain the shapes of coordination compounds and the like, while VSEPR can.

That's exactly what I meant to say 😉 thanks for clarifying it.
 
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