Identify the correct values for a 3p sublevel. Identify the correct values for a 3p sublevel. n = 2, l = 1, ml = -2 n = 4, l = -1, ml = -2 n = 2, l = 0, ml = 0 n = 1, l = 0, ml = 0 n = 3, l = 1, ml = 0
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct set of quantum numbers for a 3p sublevel is:
n = 3, l = 1, ml = 0
Explanation
In quantum mechanics, the state of an electron in an atom is described using quantum numbers. The 3p sublevel refers to a specific region within an atom where an electron is likely to be found. To understand this, let’s break down what “3p” means and how it relates to quantum numbers.
There are four quantum numbers:
- Principal quantum number (n): Indicates the energy level or shell. For “3p”, n = 3.
- Angular momentum quantum number (l): Indicates the sublevel or subshell. It determines the shape of the orbital.
- For a p sublevel, l = 1.
- Magnetic quantum number (ml): Indicates the orientation of the orbital in space.
- ml can range from –l to +l, so for l = 1, ml = –1, 0, or +1.
- Spin quantum number (ms): Not needed in this case, but it describes the spin of the electron (±½).
Given the above, for a 3p sublevel, the only valid combinations of quantum numbers are:
- n = 3
- l = 1
- ml = –1, 0, or +1
Let’s now review the options given:
- n = 2, l = 1, ml = –2 → Incorrect: ml cannot be –2 if l = 1.
- n = 4, l = –1, ml = –2 → Incorrect: l cannot be negative.
- n = 2, l = 0, ml = 0 → Incorrect: This is a 2s orbital, not 3p.
- n = 1, l = 0, ml = 0 → Incorrect: This is a 1s orbital.
- n = 3, l = 1, ml = 0 → Correct: This corresponds to the 3p sublevel.
Thus, n = 3, l = 1, ml = 0 is the correct set of quantum numbers for a 3p sublevel.
