Quantum Numbers and Orbital Shape

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Principal Quantum Number (n)

Angular Momentum Quantum Number (l)

Magnetic Quantum Number (m)

Spin Quantum Number (+1/2 or -1/2 )

1

0

0

(+1/2 or -1/2 )

2

1

-1,0,1

(+1/2 or -1/2 )

3

2

-2,-1,0,1,2

(+1/2 or -1/2 )

4 through 7 (at present)

3

-3,-2,-1,0,1,2,3

(+1/2 or -1/2 )

Every element has a unique set of four quantum numbers that it identifies itself form another element.

Principal Quantum Number (n) represents the main energy shell occupied by the electron. There are at present seven (7) energy shells.

Angular Momentum Quantum Number (l) represents the shape of the orbital within the energy level where the electron resides.

 

(l) shape orbital values

Orbital

0

s

1

p

2

d

3

f

Magnetic Quantum Number (m) represents the orientation of the electron in it's orbital around the nucleus.

Magnetic Quantum Number Value

(m) Shapes

0

-1,0,1

-2,-1,0,1,2

-3,-2,-1,0,1,2,3

Most likely not Quite Right but Close! (I am not a Artist!)

Spin Quantum Number (+1/2 or -1/2 )

Electrons repel each other so to have to electrons in the same orbital they must spin opposite to each other.