Question

Which of the following orbitals has a zero probability of finding electrons in the $XY$ plane?

• A. $p_x$
• B. $d_{z^2}$
• C. $d_{x^2-y^2}$
• D. $p_z$

Answer 1

The correct option is D $p_z$

$p_z$ has its electron density distributed over two lobes which are perpendicular to the $XY$ plane. Therefore, it has zero electron density in the $XY$ plane (nodal plane).