The (principal quantum number)n = ____ shell is the lowest that may contain s-orbitals.
A) 1
B) 2
C) 3
D) 4
E) 5

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The s-orbitals correspond to the l=0 angular momentum quantum number. For any given n, the maximum value of l is n-1. Therefore, for n=1, the only allowed angular momentum quantum number is l=0, which corresponds to the s-orbital. Thus, the n=1 shell is the lowest that may contain s-orbitals.

The (Principal Quantum Number)n = ____ Shell Is the Lowest