The d_xy, d_xz, and d_yz orbitals are lower in energy than the d_z2 and d 2 2 orbitals in an octahedral complex because these three orbitals

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Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The d_xy, d_xz, and d_yz orbitals (more commonly known as $d_{xy}$, $d_{xz}$, and $d_{yz}$) are lower in energy in an octahedral complex because they do not point directly at the ligands, which results in less electrostatic repulsion and thus lower energy compared to the $d_{z^2}$ and $d_{x^2-y^2}$ orbitals that do point directly at the ligands.

The Dxy, Dxz, and Dyz Orbitals Are Lower in Energy

The D_xy, D_xz, and D_yz Orbitals Are Lower in Energy