D-d transitions occur within transition metals or ions and do not happen between two atoms, such as carbon and a transition metal. The d-orbitals can form coordinate covalent bonds with ligands like CN-, where each bond involves two orbitals that can accommodate up to four electrons. Valence Bond Theory (VB) and Crystal Field Theory (CF) serve different purposes in explaining complex compounds, with VB focusing on ligand orientation and CF explaining coloration through d-d transitions. The confusion arises when trying to relate these theories, as they address different aspects of bonding and electronic structure. Understanding this distinction clarifies how d-d transitions can occur even when higher energy d-orbitals are involved in bonding.