What is $sp$ hybridization? Give its characteristics.

Definition: The process of mixing one $s$ orbital and one $p$ orbital of the same atom to form two equivalent hybrid orbitals is called $sp$-hybridization.
Characteristics:
- In each $sp$-hybrid orbital,$50\%$ $s$-character and $50\%$ $p$-character is observed.
- Both equivalent $sp$-hybrid orbitals are arranged along the $Z$-axis at an angle of $180^{\circ}$ in opposite directions to each other.
- The two $sp$-hybrid orbitals point in opposite directions along the $Z$-axis with large positive lobes and small negative lobes. This provides more effective overlapping,resulting in the formation of stronger bonds.
- $A$ molecule in which the central atom is $sp$-hybridized and is linked directly to two other atoms possesses a linear geometry.