Among the following the pπ–dπ overlap could be present in
NO₂⁻
NO₃⁻
PO₄³⁻
CO₃²⁻
Correct answer: PO₄³⁻
Solution
The pπ–dπ overlap occurs when a p-orbital of one atom overlaps with a d-orbital of another atom. In PO₄³⁻, phosphorus (P) can utilize its vacant d-orbitals to form pπ–dπ bonds with oxygen atoms.