Chapter 12, Problem 137AE

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:The sign $+$ and $-$ signs depicted in pictorial representation of $p$ and $d$ orbitals should be interpreted.

Concept introduction:In an attempt to define quantum mechanical picture of electron in an atom a function depicted as $\psi$ . It essentially represents the position of electron in three-dimensional space with the help of three Cartesian coordinates.

The pictorial representation of three degenerate $p$ orbitals is in the form of dumble bells are illustrated as follows:

  

The pictorial representationsof five degenerate $d$ orbitalsare in the form of clover leaf areillustrated as follows:

  

Here the shaded love represents $+$ sign while unshaved portion depicts $-$ sign of orbital wave function.