Question

what is the hybridization of the central atom in the beryllium hydride (beh₂) molecule?

Explanation:

Step1: Determine the valence - electron configuration of Be

Beryllium (Be) has an atomic number of 4, and its valence - electron configuration is $2s^2$.

Step2: Analyze the bonding in $BeH_2$

In $BeH_2$, Be forms two sigma bonds with two hydrogen atoms. To form these two bonds, Be needs to have two unpaired electrons. The $2s$ orbital of Be hybridizes with one of the $2p$ orbitals to form two $sp$ hybrid orbitals.

Answer:

$sp$