2004 AIPMT Coordination CompoundsValence bond theory Easy Question 5 of 5 in Valence bond theory

In an octahedral structure, the pair of d orbitals involved in $d^2sp^3$ hybridization is :-

A $d_{xz}, d_{x^2-y^2}$
B $d_{z^2}, d_{xz}$
C $d_{xy}, d_{yz}$
D $d_{x^2-y^2}, d_{z^2}$

The answer is D.

Solution

In an octahedral complex the six ligands approach the metal along the $\pm x$, $\pm y$ and $\pm z$ axes.
The hybrid orbitals must point along these axes. Among the d orbitals, only $d_{x^2-y^2}$ (lobes along x and y axes) and $d_{z^2}$ (lobes along the z axis) point along the axes.
$d_{xy}$, $d_{yz}$ and $d_{xz}$ have their lobes between the axes, so they are not used.
So in $d^2sp^3$ hybridization the two d orbitals are $d_{x^2-y^2}$ and $d_{z^2}$ (together with one s and three p orbitals).

Concept d orbitals used in octahedral hybridisation

Valence bond theory in past papers

5 questions from this chapter have appeared across 5 exam years.