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. A magnetic field is applied, defining the z-axis along the field. Which of the following sets of angles are possible angles between the magnetic field and the orbital angular momentum?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The orbital angular momentum of an electron in a p state can take on orientations that correspond to the magnetic quantum numbers $m_l = -1, 0, +1$. These orientations relate to different angles with respect to the magnetic field direction, including 45°, 90°, and 135°, making all these angles possible.

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