For the complexes showing the square pyramidal structure, the d-orbital involved in the hybridisatio — Coordination Compounds Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Step 1: Square pyramidal geometry corresponds to sp3d (specifically d_x^2-y^2 sp3) hybridization where five orbitals point towards the vertices of a square pyramid. Step 2: The four basal ligands lie in the xy-plane, pointing directly along the x and y axes, meaning the d-orbital with lobes lying along the axes (d_x^2-y^2) is involved in hybridization. Step 3: Therefore, the d_x^2-y^2 orbital is involved in forming the square planar base of the pyramid, matching option (a).