In: Chemistry
Each of the following sets of quantum numbers is supposed to specify an orbital. Choose the one set of quantum numbers that does not contain an error.
n = 4, l = 3, ml =-4
n = 2, l = 2, ml =0
n = 3, l = 2, ml =-2
n = 2, l = 2, ml =+1
In the given set of quantum numbers n = 3, l = 2, ml =-2 does not contain an error
The Principal quantum number (n) describes the size of the orbital.
The angular quantum number (l) describes the shape of the orbital. l = 0 for s-orbital, l = 1 for p-orbital, l = 2 for d-orbital, l = 3 for f-orbital and so on. Angular quantum number (l) value should lie between 0 and n-1 values (where n= principal quantum number).
The magnetic quantum number (ml) describes the orientation in space of a particular orbital. ml can be any integer between -l and +l .
In the given examples
n = 4, l = 3, ml =-4; in this ml contain a error, as l value is 3, ml value should be in between +3 to -3
n = 2, l = 2, ml =0; in this l value contain a error, as n value is 2, l value should be 0 or 1.
n = 2, l = 2, ml =+1; in this l value contain a error, as n value is 2, l value should be 0 or 1.
only n = 3, l = 2, ml =-2 satisfy all the rules. Hence it is the answer