Question

What are the possible quantum numbers for an electron in a 2p orbital?

Answer 1

For an electron in a 2p orbital, the possible quantum numbers are:

1. Principal Quantum Number (n): The principal quantum number represents the energy level or shell of the electron. For a 2p orbital, the principal quantum number is 2.

2. Azimuthal Quantum Number (l): The azimuthal quantum number determines the orbital angular momentum and the shape of the orbital. For a 2p orbital, the azimuthal quantum number can take the value 1.

3. Magnetic Quantum Number (m_l): The magnetic quantum number specifies the orientation of the orbital in space. For a given value of l, the magnetic quantum number can range from -l to +l. Therefore, for a 2p orbital, the possible values of m_l are -1, 0, and +1.

4. Spin Quantum Number (m_s): The spin quantum number represents the intrinsic angular momentum or spin of the electron. It can have two possible values: +1/2 (spin-up) or -1/2 (spin-down).

To summarize, the quantum numbers for an electron in a 2p orbital are: n = 2 l = 1 m_l = -1, 0, +1 m_s = +1/2 or -1/2