T2g orbitals

Definition

t2g orbitals are a set of three d-orbitals in an octahedral field that experience lower electrostatic repulsion compared to the eg orbitals. These orbitals include $d_{xy}$, $d_{xz}$, and $d_{yz}$.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. t2g orbitals are degenerate in an octahedral crystal field, meaning they have the same energy level.
2. In crystal field theory, t2g orbitals are stabilized (lowered in energy) relative to eg orbitals by an amount called the crystal field splitting energy ($\Delta_0$).
3. $\Delta_0$ is a crucial factor determining the electronic configuration and properties of coordination compounds.
4. The occupation of t2g versus eg orbitals affects the magnetic properties of transition metal complexes.
5. Electron pairing in t2g orbitals can lead to low-spin or high-spin configurations depending on the strength of the ligand field.

Review Questions

Related terms

Crystal Field Theory:

A model that describes the breaking of degeneracies of electronic orbital states due to a static electric field produced by surrounding ligands.

$\Delta_0$ (Crystal Field Splitting Energy): The energy difference between t2g and eg sets of d-orbitals in an octahedral field.

High-Spin Complex:

A coordination complex where electrons occupy higher energy eg orbitals resulting in more unpaired electrons due to a weak ligand field.