The principle quantum number of an electron is 3. The possible magnitudes of the orbital angular momentum, L, are
E) None of these is correct.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The magnitude of the orbital angular momentum, L, can range from 0 to n-1, where n is the principle quantum number. Therefore, for n=3, L can range from 0 to 2. The possible values for L are then:
L=0, 1, 2
or
L=|0-1|, |1-1|, |1+1|, |2-1|, |2+1|
which simplifies to
L=0, 1, 2
Thus, the only option that includes all possible values for L is B.

The Principle Quantum Number of an Electron Is 3