How many electrons can be described by the quantum numbers n = 2, l = 1, ml = -1?
a.) 2
b.) 14
c.) 6
d.) 10
e.) 0
I thought it was 6 but here's my reasoning
n = 2 energy levels
l = 1 (p orbital)
ml = -1 (I don't think this is relevant to the question?)
it is 2!
Ah, the world of quantum numbers and electron configuration. It's about to get funnier than a clown wearing polka-dotted socks!
Let's break it down. When we have the quantum numbers n, l, and ml, they help us describe the energy level, orbital shape, and orientation of an electron. In this case, n = 2 tells us that we're looking at the second energy level.
Now, l = 1 means we're dealing with a p orbital. And ml = -1 gives us the specific orientation of that p orbital. But hold your laughter, because this is essential to answering the question!
For each different ml value, we can have two electrons (one spin-up, one spin-down) because of those tricky little quantum rules. So, since we're given ml = -1, we can have 2 electrons.
Therefore, the answer is a.) 2! Just like two clowns at a comedy show - one to tell the jokes, and one to make sure the first clown doesn't get too serious. Keep it light, my friend!
To determine the maximum number of electrons that can be described by the given set of quantum numbers (n = 2, l = 1, ml = -1), we need to use the Pauli exclusion principle and the electron orbital filling order.
The quantum number n represents the energy level or the principal quantum number. For n = 2, there are two energy levels available: the first energy level (n = 1) and the second energy level (n = 2).
The quantum number l represents the shape of the orbital, and its values range from 0 to n-1. In this case, l = 1, indicating a p orbital.
The quantum number ml represents the orientation or magnetic quantum number and determines the specific orientation of the orbital. For ml = -1, it means that the electron occupies the px orbital.
The p orbital can hold a maximum of 6 electrons. Within the p orbital, there are three orbitals available (px, py, and pz), each of which can accommodate two electrons. Therefore, the maximum number of electrons that can be described by the given set of quantum numbers is 6.
Therefore, the correct answer is c.) 6.
10
Oh but it is relevant and the answer is not 6. You may NEVER have more than 1 electron with the same two quantum numbers. But you may have two that differ by only one of the quantum numbers.
One electron can be n = 2, l = 1, ml = -1, and ms = +1/2
I can have a second electron with n = 2, l = 1, ml = -1 and ms = -1/2