Asked in UHS MDCAT 2010 2010Moderate

Which quantum number helps to study the orientation of an orbital in space?

Correct answer: C. Magnetic Quantum Number

  • A. Principal Quantum Number
  • B. Spin Quantum Number
  • C. Magnetic Quantum Number
  • D. Azimuthal Quantum Number

Explanation

A is incorrect as The principal quantum number, n, describes the energy of an electron and the most probable distance of the electron from the nucleusB is incorrect as The Spin Quantum Number (ms) describes the angular momentum of an electronC is correct as Magnetic Quantum Number specifies the orientation in space of an orbital of a given energy (n) and shape (l). This number divides the subshell into individual orbitals which hold the electrons; there are 2l+1 orbitals in each subshell.D is incorrect as The azimuthal (or orbital angular momentum) quantum number describes the shape of a given orbital

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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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