Shape of orbital is determined by quantum number:
Correct answer: B. l
- A. n
- B. l
- C. m
- D. s
Explanation
The azimuthal quantum number l fixes the subshell and therefore the shape, with l equal to 0 giving a spherical s orbital and l equal to 1 giving a dumb-bell shaped p orbital. The principal quantum number n sets the main energy level and size, m sets the orientation in space and s the direction of electron spin. Knowing which quantum number controls which property answers a whole family of questions.
This question appeared on the UHS MDCAT 2025 paper, which you can sit online with every answer explained.
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About Shapes of Orbitals
Atomic orbitals are three-dimensional regions where an electron is most likely to be found, not fixed circular paths. The content covers the spherical s orbitals, dumbbell-shaped p orbitals, clover-shaped d orbitals, the orientations of orbitals, and how quantum numbers determine their shapes and energy levels.
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