Moderate

Which set of quantum number represents 29th electron of Cu atom:

Correct answer: A. n=4, ℓ=0, m=0, s=+ ½

  • A. n=4, ℓ=0, m=0, s=+ ½
  • B. n=3, ℓ=2, m=0, s=+½
  • C. n=4, ℓ =1, m=0, s=+½
  • D. n=3, ℓ=0, m=0, s=+½

Explanation

The correct option is a) n=4, ℓ=0, m=0, s=+½. The quantum numbers provide specific information about the electron's energy level, orbital shape, orientation, and spin. Let's analyze why the other options are incorrect: Option b) n=3, ℓ=2, m=0, s=+½: This set of quantum numbers represents the 29th electron being in the 3d orbital. However, copper (Cu) has 29 electrons, and the filling order of electrons follows the Aufbau principle. The 4s orbital is filled before the 3d orbital. Therefore, the 29th electron should occupy the 4s orbital, not the 3d orbital. Option c) n=4, ℓ=1, m=0, s=+½: This set of quantum numbers represents the 29th electron being in the 4p orbital. However, as mentioned above, the 29th electron occupies the 4s orbital in copper, not the 4p orbital. Option d) n=3, ℓ=0, m=0, s=+½: This set of quantum numbers represents the 29th electron being in the 3s orbital. However, copper has 29 electrons, and the 3s orbital can accommodate only 2 electrons. Therefore, the 29th electron cannot be in the 3s orbital. Hence, option a) n=4, ℓ=0, m=0, s=+½ is correct. It represents the 29th electron being in the 4s orbital of the copper atom.

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