crystal field theory

Question

In an octahedral crystal field, the d-orbitals split into:

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According to **Crystal Field Theory (CFT)**, when ligands approach the central metal in an octahedral geometry (along the x, y, z axes):
- The $d_{x^2-y^2}$ and $d_{z^2}$ orbitals point directly at the ligands and experience greater repulsion. Their energy increases; they are called **$e_g$ orbitals**.
- The $d_{xy}, d_{yz},$ and $d_{zx}$ orbitals point between the axes, experiencing less repulsion. Their energy is lower; they are called **$t_{2g}$ orbitals**.
- This separation of energy levels is known as **Crystal Field Splitting** ($\Delta_o$).

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crystal field theory

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