Multielectron atoms: An atom has completely filled inner shells and a single valence electron in an excited p state. The filled inner shells have an orbital momentum equal to zero. What is the magnitude of the orbital angular momentum L of the atom?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The magnitude of the orbital angular momentum of an electron in an excited p state is given by L = √(l(l+1)ħ), where l is the azimuthal quantum number. In this case, the valence electron is in an excited p state, which means l=1. Plugging this into the equation, we get L = √(1(1+1)ħ) = √2ħ, or approximately 1.4ħ. Therefore, the best choice is C.

Multielectron Atoms: an Atom Has Completely Filled Inner Shells and a Single