Which of the following quantum numbers can have a negative value?
Practice Questions
Q1
Which of the following quantum numbers can have a negative value?
n
l
m_l
m_s
Questions & Step-by-Step Solutions
Which of the following quantum numbers can have a negative value?
Correct Answer: Magnetic quantum number (m_l)
Step 1: Understand what quantum numbers are. They are numbers that describe the properties of electrons in an atom.
Step 2: Identify the types of quantum numbers: principal quantum number (n), azimuthal quantum number (l), magnetic quantum number (m_l), and spin quantum number (m_s).
Step 3: Note that the principal quantum number (n) and azimuthal quantum number (l) can only be positive or zero.
Step 4: Recognize that the magnetic quantum number (m_l) can take on values that range from -l to +l, which means it can be negative.
Step 5: Conclude that the only quantum number that can have a negative value is the magnetic quantum number (m_l).
