The d_xy, d_xz, and d_yz orbitals are lower in energy than the d_z²and d_x² - _y² orbitals in an octahedral complex because these three orbitals ________

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The d_xy, d_xz, and d_yz orbitals are lower in energy because they do not point directly at ligands. This results in less repulsion between the electrons in the orbital and the electrons in the ligands. Conversely, the d_z²and d_x² - _y² orbitals point directly at the ligands, resulting in more repulsion between the electrons in the orbital and the electrons in the ligands, increasing their energy.

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

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