Give the numerical values of n and l corresponding to each of the following orbital designations: (a) 3p.

Key Concepts

Quantum Numbers

Quantum numbers are a set of numerical values that describe the unique quantum state of an electron in an atom. The principal quantum number (n) indicates the energy level and size of the orbital, while the azimuthal quantum number (l) defines the shape of the orbital. Together, these numbers help in identifying the location and energy of electrons.

Principal Quantum Number (n)

The principal quantum number (n) is a positive integer that represents the main energy level of an electron in an atom. It can take values of 1, 2, 3, and so on, with higher values corresponding to higher energy levels and larger orbitals. For the 3p orbital, n is 3, indicating it is in the third energy level.

Azimuthal Quantum Number (l)

The azimuthal quantum number (l) determines the shape of the orbital and can take integer values from 0 to (n-1). Each value of l corresponds to a specific type of orbital: 0 for s, 1 for p, 2 for d, and 3 for f. For the 3p orbital, l is 1, indicating it has a p-shaped configuration.