Multiple Choice
In the quantum mechanical model of the atom, what does the principal quantum number n represent?
33
views
9. Quantum Mechanics
Quantum Numbers: Principal Quantum Number
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
Which principal quantum number, n, corresponds to the ground state of the hydrogen atom?
A
n = 1
B
n = 0
C
n = 2
D
n = 3
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that the principal quantum number, \(n\), determines the energy level or shell of an electron in an atom.
Understand that for the hydrogen atom, the ground state corresponds to the lowest energy level, which is the smallest allowed value of \(n\).
Remember that the principal quantum number \(n\) must be a positive integer starting from 1 (i.e., \(n = 1, 2, 3, \ldots\)), so \(n = 0\) is not a valid quantum number.
Recognize that the ground state of hydrogen is when the electron is in the \(n = 1\) energy level, which is the closest shell to the nucleus and has the lowest energy.
Therefore, the principal quantum number corresponding to the ground state of hydrogen is \(n = 1\).
2:55mWatch next
Master Principal Quantum Number with a bite sized video explanation from Jules
Start learningRelated Videos
Related Practice
Quantum Numbers: Principal Quantum Number practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations