On the Problem of the Exact Shape of Orbitals

Key Points

• The aim is to address the misrepresentation of dz2 orbitals in educational materials by comparing different representations.
• Analyzed contour and polar representations of dz2 orbitals.
• Compared representations used in various introductory textbooks.
• Identified discrepancies in the visual portrayal of the dz2 orbital.
• Highlighted that traditional representations often show a 'lifesaver' shape.
• Established that the 'lifesaver' shape aligns with contour representation, not polar.
• Clarified that many educational resources misrepresent the true shape of the dz2 orbital.

Abstract