Can pi bonds be made from d-orbitals?
No, pi bonds cannot be made from d-orbitals. Pi bonds are formed by the overlapping of two p-orbitals or by the overlap of a p-orbital with a hybrid orbital.
To understand why pi bonds cannot be formed from d-orbitals, we need to have a basic understanding of atomic orbitals and their shapes. Atomic orbitals are mathematical functions that describe the behavior of electrons in an atom. They are categorized into different types, such as s, p, d, and f orbitals, based on their shapes and energy levels.
Pi bonds are formed through the side-to-side overlap of orbitals. In the case of a pi bond between two atoms, such as in a double bond, the overlapping orbitals are usually p-orbitals. The p-orbitals have a dumbbell shape with a nodal plane passing through the two nuclei. This allows them to align and overlap effectively, resulting in the formation of a pi bond.
On the other hand, d-orbitals have a different shape compared to p-orbitals. They have more complex shapes and do not possess the required symmetry and alignment for efficient side-to-side overlap that is necessary for pi bonding. Therefore, d-orbitals do not participate in the formation of pi bonds.
In summary, pi bonds are formed by the overlapping of p-orbitals or the overlap of a p-orbital with a hybrid orbital. D-orbitals do not possess the necessary shape and symmetry for effective side-to-side overlap, and therefore, cannot form pi bonds.