In which orbital does an electron in a phosphorus atom experience the greatest shielding?
A)2p
B)3s
C)3p
D)2s
E)1s

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Shielding increases as we move away from the nucleus (increasing radial distance). Therefore, electrons in higher energy orbitals will experience greater shielding than those in lower energy orbitals. Among the given options, the electron in the 3p orbital is in a higher energy level than the electron in the 2p, 3s or 2s orbitals. Additionally, the 3p orbital has some angular nodal planes which shield the electron from the positively charged nucleus.

In Which Orbital Does an Electron in a Phosphorus Atom