An electron is present in a 3d orbital of an atom. Its spatial probability density is zero along the Cartesian x and y axes, and it reaches a maximum at an angle of 45^ to the x and y axes within the xy plane. Identify the specific orbital.

Step-by-step solution

The probability density being zero along the x and y axes implies that the xz and yz planes are nodal planes. The maximum electron density at an angle of 45^ to the axes in the xy plane indicates that the lobes of the orbital are directed between the x and y axes. For a 3d orbital, this specific spatial orientation corresponds to the 3d_ xy orbital. The 3d_ x^2-y^2 orbital has its maximum electron density along the x and y axes, while 3p_x is a p-orbital directed along the x-axis. Answer: 3d_ xy