Which of the following quantum numbers describes the shape of an atomic orbital?
Practice Questions
Q1
Which of the following quantum numbers describes the shape of an atomic orbital? (2022)
Principal quantum number
Azimuthal quantum number
Magnetic quantum number
Spin quantum number
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
Which of the following quantum numbers describes the shape of an atomic orbital? (2022)
Step 1: Understand that atomic orbitals are regions where electrons are likely to be found around an atom.
Step 2: Learn about quantum numbers, which are numbers that describe the properties of atomic orbitals.
Step 3: Identify the different types of quantum numbers: principal quantum number (n), azimuthal quantum number (l), magnetic quantum number (m), and spin quantum number (s).
Step 4: Focus on the azimuthal quantum number (l), which specifically indicates the shape of the orbital.
Step 5: Remember that different values of l correspond to different shapes: l = 0 (s orbital), l = 1 (p orbital), l = 2 (d orbital), l = 3 (f orbital).
Step 6: Conclude that the azimuthal quantum number (l) is the correct answer to the question about which quantum number describes the shape of an atomic orbital.
