Orbitals of the same subshell have
Correct answer: C. Different orientation and same energy
- A. Different orientation and different shape
- B. Different energy and same shape
- C. Different orientation and same energy
- D. Same orientation and same shape
- E. Same energy and same orientation
Explanation
In quantum chemistry, orbitals that belong to the same subshell (such as 2p or 3d) have the same energy level but differ in their spatial orientation. For example, the three 2p orbitals (2px, 2py, 2pz) all have the same energy, but each is oriented differently in three-dimensional space. Therefore, the correct answer is 'Different orientation and same energy.' The other options are incorrect because they misrepresent the characteristics of orbitals within the same subshell, either by suggesting they have different shapes or energy levels, or by claiming they have the same orientation.
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About Quantum Numbers
Quantum numbers describe an electron's energy level, subshell, orbital orientation and spin. You examine the principal, azimuthal, magnetic and spin quantum numbers, their allowed values, orbital capacity and how they determine electronic configurations and distinguish electrons within an atom.
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