Which principal quantum number (n) corresponds to the subshells in the sixth energy level of an atom?

• A. n = 6
• B. n = 5
• C. n = 3
• D. n = 4

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the principal quantum number, denoted as \(n\), defines the main energy level or shell of an electron in an atom.
2. Each principal quantum number \(n\) corresponds to a specific energy level, where \(n = 1\) is the first (lowest) energy level, \(n = 2\) is the second, and so on.
3. The subshells (s, p, d, f, etc.) within an atom are grouped according to their principal quantum number \(n\). For example, the subshells in the first energy level are labeled as 1s, in the second as 2s and 2p, etc.
4. Therefore, the subshells in the sixth energy level correspond to the principal quantum number \(n = 6\).
5. In summary, the principal quantum number \(n\) directly indicates the energy level, so for the sixth energy level, \(n = 6\).