An electron in an atom has the following set of quantum numbers:
n = 2, = 1, = -1, m s = +1/2.
-What shell is this electron occupying?
A)K shell
B)L shell
C)M shell
D)N shell
E)O shell

Question

An electron in an atom has the following set of quantum numbers:
n = 2,  = 1,  = -1, m s = +1/2.
-What shell is this electron occupying?
A)K shell 
B)L shell 
C)M shell 
D)N shell 
E)O shell

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The principal quantum number (n) determines the shell number. Here, n = 2 implies that the electron is in the second shell, which is the L shell. The azimuthal quantum number (l) determines the subshell or orbital shape. In this case, l = 1, indicating that the electron is in a p orbital. The magnetic quantum number (m) determines the specific orientation of the orbital in space, and ms determines the spin of the electron.

An Electron in an Atom Has the Following Set of Quantum