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Ch.6 - Electronic Structure of Atoms
Chapter 6, Problem 64c

Sketch the shape and orientation of the following types of orbitals: (c) dx2 - y2.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Atomic Orbitals

Atomic orbitals are regions in an atom where there is a high probability of finding electrons. They are defined by quantum numbers and have distinct shapes, such as s, p, d, and f orbitals. Each type of orbital has a specific geometric configuration that influences the chemical properties of the atom.
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d-Orbitals

d-orbitals are a set of five orbitals that are more complex in shape compared to s and p orbitals. They are important for transition metals and can hold a maximum of ten electrons. The dx2 - y2 orbital, in particular, has a unique shape that resembles a four-leaf clover, oriented along the x and y axes.
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Orbital Orientation

Orbital orientation refers to the spatial arrangement of orbitals in relation to the axes of a coordinate system. For the dx2 - y2 orbital, its lobes are oriented along the x and y axes, with nodal planes along the diagonals. Understanding this orientation is crucial for predicting molecular geometry and bonding behavior in chemistry.
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