Multiple Choice
In the context of atomic orbitals, what is meant by the term electron cloud?
9. Electrons in Atoms and the Periodic Table
Electronic Structure: Orbitals
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Which of the following orbitals possesses the most orbital shapes?
A
2p
B
7s
C
4d
D
5p
E
5f
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that orbitals are regions in an atom where there is a high probability of finding electrons. Each type of orbital (s, p, d, f) has a different shape and number of orientations.
Recall that s orbitals are spherical and have only one orientation, p orbitals are dumbbell-shaped and have three orientations, d orbitals have five orientations, and f orbitals have seven orientations.
Identify the given orbitals: 2p, 7s, 4d, 5p, and 5f. Note that the number before the letter indicates the principal quantum number, which affects the energy level but not the shape or number of orientations.
Compare the number of orientations for each type of orbital: s (1 orientation), p (3 orientations), d (5 orientations), and f (7 orientations).
Conclude that the 5f orbital possesses the most orbital shapes, with seven different orientations, compared to the other orbitals listed.
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