The ligand field effect splits five degenerate d-orbitals into two sets with different energies, the pair of high energy degenerate orbitals is:
Correct answer: C. dx2-y2, dz2
- A. dxy, dyz
- B. dyz, dzx
- C. dx2-y2, dz2
- D. dx2, d
Explanation
In an octahedral crystal field, the five degenerate d-orbitals split into two distinct groups due to ligand interactions: the t2g set (dxy, dyz, dzx) with lower energy, and the eg set (dx2-y2, dz2) with higher energy. The eg orbitals align along the axes, directly facing the ligands, which results in significant repulsion and increased energy. Therefore, the correct answer is Option D. Options A and B are incorrect because they describe the t2g orbitals, which have lower energy. Option C is incorrect due to improper notation.
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About Transition Elements
Transition elements are identified by their partially filled d subshells in atoms or common ions. The topic covers the electronic structure of d-block elements, including the filling order of 4s and 3d orbitals, variable oxidation states and the distinction between transition elements and elements with completely filled d subshells.
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