How do `d_(x^2 - y^2)` and `d_(xy)` orbitals differ in their orientation is space ?

Explanation

The four lobes of `d_(x^2 - y^2)` lie on X and Y axis while the lobes of `d_(xy)` in between X and Y axis (i.e., at an angle of `45^@`). So `d_(x^2 - y^2)` orbital is exactly like `d_(xy)` except that it is rotated through `45^@` around Z-axis.