Question:
Which quantum number provides information about the shape of an orbital?
Which quantum number provides information about the shape of an orbital?
Show Hint
The azimuthal quantum number \((l)\) determines the shape of orbitals:
\[
s,\;p,\;d,\;f
\]
while the magnetic quantum number determines their orientation.
Updated On: Jun 22, 2026
- Spin quantum number
- Azimuthal quantum number
- Magnetic quantum number
- Principal quantum number
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The Correct Option is B
Solution and Explanation
Step 1: Recall the different quantum numbers.
An electron in an atom is described by four quantum numbers: \[ n,\;l,\;m_l,\;m_s \] where
\[ n=\text{Principal quantum number} \] \[ l=\text{Azimuthal quantum number} \] \[ m_l=\text{Magnetic quantum number} \] \[ m_s=\text{Spin quantum number} \]
Step 2: Understand the role of azimuthal quantum number.
The azimuthal quantum number \((l)\) determines the shape of the orbital.
Different values of \(l\) correspond to different subshells: \[ l=0 \rightarrow s\text{-orbital} \] \[ l=1 \rightarrow p\text{-orbital} \] \[ l=2 \rightarrow d\text{-orbital} \] \[ l=3 \rightarrow f\text{-orbital} \] Each subshell has a characteristic shape.
Step 3: Analyze the other options.
Principal quantum number \((n)\): Determines size and energy of the orbital.
Magnetic quantum number \((m_l)\): Determines orientation of the orbital in space.
Spin quantum number \((m_s)\): Determines the spin orientation of the electron.
Step 4: Final conclusion.
Hence, the quantum number that provides information about the shape of an orbital is \[ \boxed{\text{Azimuthal quantum number}} \]
An electron in an atom is described by four quantum numbers: \[ n,\;l,\;m_l,\;m_s \] where
\[ n=\text{Principal quantum number} \] \[ l=\text{Azimuthal quantum number} \] \[ m_l=\text{Magnetic quantum number} \] \[ m_s=\text{Spin quantum number} \]
Step 2: Understand the role of azimuthal quantum number.
The azimuthal quantum number \((l)\) determines the shape of the orbital.
Different values of \(l\) correspond to different subshells: \[ l=0 \rightarrow s\text{-orbital} \] \[ l=1 \rightarrow p\text{-orbital} \] \[ l=2 \rightarrow d\text{-orbital} \] \[ l=3 \rightarrow f\text{-orbital} \] Each subshell has a characteristic shape.
Step 3: Analyze the other options.
Principal quantum number \((n)\): Determines size and energy of the orbital.
Magnetic quantum number \((m_l)\): Determines orientation of the orbital in space.
Spin quantum number \((m_s)\): Determines the spin orientation of the electron.
Step 4: Final conclusion.
Hence, the quantum number that provides information about the shape of an orbital is \[ \boxed{\text{Azimuthal quantum number}} \]
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