Cartesian Approach to Atomic and Molecular Orbitals

Key Points

• The aim is to explore a Cartesian approach to atomic and molecular orbitals for better student comprehension.
• Utilized alternative formulations in Cartesian coordinates to describe orbitals.
• Compared student comprehension using traditional spherical polar coordinates and Cartesian coordinates.
• Students showed improved understanding of lower lying orbitals with the Cartesian approach.
• The Cartesian method clarified complex concepts for students previously struggling with spherical polar coordinates.