Multiple Choice
Which of the following is a possible set of quantum numbers for an electron in an atom?
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9. Quantum Mechanics
Quantum Numbers: Principal Quantum Number
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Which quantum number is most important in determining the size of an atomic orbital?
A
Principal quantum number (n)
B
Azimuthal quantum number (l)
C
Magnetic quantum number (m_l)
D
Spin quantum number (m_s)
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that atomic orbitals are described by four quantum numbers: principal quantum number (\(n\)), azimuthal quantum number (\(l\)), magnetic quantum number (\(m_l\)), and spin quantum number (\(m_s\)).
Recognize that the principal quantum number (\(n\)) primarily determines the energy level and the average distance of the electron from the nucleus, which directly affects the size of the orbital.
Recall that the azimuthal quantum number (\(l\)) defines the shape of the orbital but does not significantly change its overall size compared to \(n\).
Note that the magnetic quantum number (\(m_l\)) specifies the orientation of the orbital in space, which does not influence the size of the orbital.
Understand that the spin quantum number (\(m_s\)) describes the electron's spin direction and has no effect on the orbital size.
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