Hybridization is a process in which two different species or varieties of organisms breed to produce offspring with mixed traits. This can occur naturally in the wild or be facilitated by humans in controlled environments, such as in agriculture or horticulture. The resulting hybrids often exhibit characteristics from both parent species, which can lead to increased diversity and adaptability. In the context of chemistry, hybridization refers to the mixing of atomic orbitals to form new hybrid orbitals. This concept helps explain the shapes and bonding properties of molecules, such as those found in carbon compounds. Hybridization is essential for understanding molecular geometry and reactivity in organic chemistry.