Which property of atomic orbitals is primarily determined by the principal quantum number (n)?

• A. The shape of the orbital
• B. The orientation of the orbital in space
• C. The spin direction of the electron
• D. The energy level and relative size of the orbital

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that atomic orbitals are described by quantum numbers, each defining specific properties of the orbital.
2. Recall that the principal quantum number \(n\) primarily determines the energy level of the orbital and its relative size; as \(n\) increases, the orbital becomes larger and the electron is found farther from the nucleus.
3. Recognize that the shape of the orbital is determined by the azimuthal (angular momentum) quantum number \(l\), not by \(n\).
4. Know that the orientation of the orbital in space is defined by the magnetic quantum number \(m_l\), which depends on \(l\) but not on \(n\).
5. Remember that the spin direction of the electron is described by the spin quantum number \(m_s\), which is independent of \(n\).