How do `p_(x),p_(y)` and `p_(z)` atomic orbitals differ ?

Options

A. Two end to end and one sidewise overlap
B. Two sidewise and one end to end overlap
C. Three sidewise overlaps
D. Three end to end overlaps

Explanation

To understand how the `p_x`, `p_y`, and `p_z` atomic orbitals differ, we need to focus on their orientation in three-dimensional space. Here's a step-by-step breakdown of the differences:

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Atomic Orbitals**: Atomic orbitals are regions in space where there is a high probability of finding electrons. The p orbitals are one type of atomic orbital characterized by their specific shapes and orientations.

2. **Orientation of p Orbitals**:
- The `p_x` orbital is oriented along the x-axis. It has a dumbbell shape that extends in the positive and negative x-direction.
- The `p_y` orbital is oriented along the y-axis. Similar to the `p_x`, it also has a dumbbell shape but extends in the positive and negative y-direction.
- The `p_z` orbital is oriented along the z-axis. It has the same dumbbell shape but extends in the positive and negative z-direction.

3. **Visual Representation**:
- If we visualize these orbitals in a three-dimensional coordinate system:
- The `p_x` orbital lies along the x-axis.
- The `p_y` orbital lies along the y-axis.
- The `p_z` orbital lies along the z-axis.
- This means that each of these orbitals is oriented in a different direction in space.

4. **Overlap of Orbitals**:
- When two atoms approach each other, the way their orbitals overlap can differ based on their orientation:
- The `p_x` orbitals from two atoms can overlap end-to-end when aligned along the x-axis.
- The `p_y` and `p_z` orbitals from two atoms overlap sidewise when aligned along the y-axis and z-axis, respectively.

5. **Conclusion**: In summary, the main differences between `p_x`, `p_y`, and `p_z` orbitals are their orientations in space and the manner in which they overlap with other orbitals when atoms come close to each other. The `p_x` orbital overlaps end-to-end, while the `p_y` and `p_z` orbitals overlap sidewise.