Question

In an octahedral structure, the pair of d orbitals involved involved in d2 sp3 hybridization is

• A. dxz, dx² –y²
• B. dz². dxz
• C. dxy, dyz
• D. dx² y² dz²

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

The question asks about which pair of d orbitals are involved in d^2sp^3 hybridization in an octahedral structure. Let's delve into the concept step-by-step to find the correct answer.

Understanding Octahedral Hybridization:

• Octahedral geometry is commonly associated with transition metal complexes in coordination chemistry.
• In an octahedral complex, a central metal atom is surrounded by six ligands arranged in an octahedron.
• The hybridization involving central metal ion's orbitals in an octahedral complex is d^2sp^3.

Details of d^2sp^3 Hybridization:

• The hybridization d^2sp^3 involves two d orbitals, one s orbital, and three p orbitals combining to form six equivalent d^2sp^3 hybrid orbitals.
• In an octahedral field, the t_{2g} and e_g sets of orbitals are important:
  • t_{2g}: d_{xy}, d_{yz}, d_{zx} (non-bonding in strong-field cases)
  • e_g: d_{x^2-y^2}, d_{z^2} (strongly involved in bonding and thus in hybridization)
• Therefore, for d^2sp^3 hybridization in an octahedral complex, the d_{x^2-y^2} and d_{z^2} orbitals are involved because they interact directly with the ligands located along the axes.

Conclusion:

• Based on the above understanding, the pair of d orbitals involved in the d^2sp^3 hybridization in an octahedral structure are the d_{x^2-y^2} and d_{z^2} orbitals.
• Hence, the correct option is dx² y² dz².