The hydrogenic atomic orbitals in different coordinate systems are what? Aren't they easier to work with in Cartesian?
1 Answer
Sep 24, 2017
The same.
They are mathematical constructs of electron density, but are based on an actual observable (the electron). Thus, the number of orbitals and their shape, properties, etc. are invariant in every coordinate system.
But the hydrogenic atomic orbital wave functions are written in spherical polar coordinates, so in that regard, your question is invalid since they ARE well-defined in polar coordinates.
