Which of the following correctly describes an atomic orbital?

• A. A fixed path that electrons follow around the nucleus, similar to planets orbiting the sun.
• B. A region in an atom where there is a high probability of finding an electron.
• C. The total number of protons and neutrons in an atom.
• D. A positively charged particle found in the nucleus of an atom.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that an atomic orbital is a concept from quantum chemistry that describes where an electron is likely to be found around the nucleus of an atom.
2. Recall that electrons do not move in fixed paths like planets; instead, their positions are described by probability distributions.
3. Recognize that an atomic orbital is defined as a region in space where the probability of finding an electron is high.
4. Eliminate options that describe particles (like protons or neutrons) or fixed paths, as these do not match the quantum mechanical model of the atom.
5. Conclude that the correct description of an atomic orbital is: 'A region in an atom where there is a high probability of finding an electron.'