The maximum number of electrons a subshell with azimuthal quantum number (ℓ) can accommodate is calculated by:
Correct answer: C. 2(2ℓ +1)
- A. ℓ +1
- B. 2ℓ +1
- C. 2(2ℓ +1)
- D. 2ℓ +2
Explanation
A subshell with azimuthal quantum number l has 2l plus 1 orbitals, and each holds 2 electrons, so the maximum is 2(2l plus 1). 2l plus 1 alone counts only the orbitals, which is the tempting but incomplete answer.
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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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