How many p orbitals exist in one energy level (n ≥ 2) of an atom?

• A. 1
• B. 6
• C. 2
• D. 3

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that for any principal energy level \( n \geq 2 \), the p subshell is present.
2. Understand that the p subshell consists of three p orbitals, each oriented along a different axis (\( p_x \), \( p_y \), and \( p_z \)).
3. Each p orbital can hold up to 2 electrons, but the question asks for the number of p orbitals, not electrons.
4. Therefore, the number of p orbitals in any energy level where \( n \geq 2 \) is always 3.
5. This is because the magnetic quantum number \( m_l \) for p orbitals can take values \( -1, 0, +1 \), corresponding to the three distinct orbitals.