Which of the following does the principal quantum number, n, determine for an electron in an atom?

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

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the principal quantum number, denoted as \(n\), is one of the four quantum numbers used to describe the unique quantum state of an electron in an atom.
2. Recall that \(n\) primarily determines the energy level or shell of the electron, which corresponds to the average distance of the electron from the nucleus and its energy.
3. Recognize that the shape of the orbital is determined by the azimuthal quantum number \(l\), not by \(n\).
4. Know that the spin of the electron is described by the spin quantum number \(m_s\), which can be either +1/2 or -1/2, independent of \(n\).
5. Understand that the orientation of the orbital in space is given by the magnetic quantum number \(m_l\), which depends on \(l\) but not directly on \(n\).