Question

I am confused about covalent bonding. Is the valence shell the entire shell, as in 2s2/2p2 for carbon and 2s22p1 for Boron, or is it just the outermost s or p orbital(s)? I think it is the former because Boron turns out to have 3 electrons to share (BF3). But that would mean that the valence shell bonds using s and p, and s is a lower energy state. Is that where hybridization comes in? Does hybridization mean both p and s in shell 2 are available for sharing? Can an empty 2pz be 'shared' by taking two electrons from another atom?

Answer 1

i suggest you to download this book (go to the botom of the page where it says: I have no money, I want download for free):
http://extabit.com/file/27u99oozmgmnd
and start reading from section 10
hope it helps :D

Answer 2

Thank you very much - the explanation I was looking for is on page 390 of the edition I downloaded. This looks like an extremely useful book for perpetual beginners like me

Answer 3

yes, that's why i suggested it :D
glad to help...