Moderate

According to Pauli's exclusion principle, both electrons in a degenerate orbital:

Correct answer: B. cannot have same values of all four quantum numbers

  • A. Same spin
  • B. cannot have same values of all four quantum numbers
  • C. Opposite spin
  • D. Same value for spin quantum number

Explanation

Pauli's exclusion principle states that no two electrons in a single atom can have the same values for all four quantum numbers. According to this, if two electrons are in the same degenerate orbital, they can have the same value for the principal quantum number, Azimuthal quantum number, and magnetic quantum number but not for spin quantum number. This is why these electrons have opposite spins.

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About Atomic Structure

Atomic structure covers the discovery of the proton, Planck's quantum theory, hydrogen emission spectra and the evidence for quantized energy levels. You will use quantum numbers to describe orbitals, distinguish s, p, d and f orbital shapes, and write electronic configurations, including the correct order of electron filling.

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