Which quantum number describes the shape of an orbital?
Practice Questions
1 question
Q1
Which quantum number describes the shape of an orbital?
Principal quantum number (n)
Azimuthal quantum number (l)
Magnetic quantum number (m_l)
Spin quantum number (m_s)
The azimuthal quantum number (l) determines the shape of the orbital.
Questions & Step-by-step Solutions
1 item
Q
Q: Which quantum number describes the shape of an orbital?
Solution: The azimuthal quantum number (l) determines the shape of the orbital.
Steps: 5
Step 1: Understand that orbitals are regions in an atom where electrons are likely to be found.
Step 2: Learn that quantum numbers are used to describe the properties of these orbitals.
Step 3: Identify the different types of quantum numbers: principal (n), azimuthal (l), magnetic (m), and spin (s).
Step 4: Focus on the azimuthal quantum number (l), which specifically relates to 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).
