Which of the following is false concerning orbitals?

• A. An electron's position is described in terms of a probability distribution map.
• B. It is not possible to specify the energy of an electron in an orbital precisely.
• C. When an orbital is represented pictorially, the probability of finding an electron at any point on the surface is the same.
• D. A plot of the wave function squared (ψ²) represents an orbital.
• E. None of the above is false.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the concept of orbitals. Orbitals are regions in an atom where there is a high probability of finding electrons. They are described by wave functions, which are solutions to the Schrödinger equation.
2. Step 2: Analyze the statement about probability distribution maps. Electrons are described in terms of probability distribution maps, which indicate where an electron is likely to be found around the nucleus.
3. Step 3: Consider the statement about specifying the energy of an electron. In quantum mechanics, the energy of an electron in an orbital can be specified precisely, contrary to the statement provided.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the statement about pictorial representation of orbitals. When orbitals are represented pictorially, the surface represents regions of equal probability density, but the probability of finding an electron at any point on the surface is not necessarily the same.
5. Step 5: Examine the statement about the wave function squared (ψ²). The square of the wave function, ψ², represents the probability density of finding an electron in a particular region of space, which is consistent with the definition of an orbital.