Which atomic orbital corresponds to the quantum numbers n = 3 and l = 1?

• A. 2p
• B. 3s
• C. 3p
• D. 3d

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the principal quantum number \(n\), which indicates the energy level or shell. Here, \(n = 3\) means the electron is in the third energy level.
2. Identify the azimuthal (angular momentum) quantum number \(l\), which determines the subshell or type of orbital. The values of \(l\) correspond to: \(l = 0\) for s orbitals, \(l = 1\) for p orbitals, \(l = 2\) for d orbitals, and \(l = 3\) for f orbitals.
3. Since \(l = 1\), the orbital type is a p orbital.
4. Combine the principal quantum number \(n = 3\) with the orbital type p to get the orbital designation: 3p.
5. Therefore, the atomic orbital corresponding to \(n = 3\) and \(l = 1\) is the 3p orbital.