For a multielectron atom,a 3s orbital lies lower in energy than a 3p orbital because
A)a 3p orbital has more nodal surfaces than a 3s orbital.
B)other electrons more effectively shield electrons in the 3s orbital from the nucleus.
C)other electrons more effectively shield electrons in the 3p orbital from the nucleus.
D)there are more p orbitals than s orbitals in a given shell.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

In multielectron atoms, electrons in s orbitals are closer to the nucleus and experience less shielding compared to p orbitals. This makes 3s orbitals lower in energy than 3p orbitals.

For a Multielectron Atom,a 3s Orbital Lies Lower in Energy