In which of the following atoms is the 2s orbital closest to the nucleus?
A) Si
B) S
C) P
D) Cl
E) The 2s orbitals are the same distance from the nucleus in all of these atoms.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The distance of an orbital from the nucleus is determined by the principal quantum number, n, and the azimuthal quantum number, l. For atoms with the same n value, the distance to the nucleus decreases as l increases. In the case of the 2s and 2p orbitals, they have the same n value (n=2) but differ in their l value (l=0 for 2s and l=1 for 2p). Therefore, the 2s orbital is closer to the nucleus than the 2p orbitals in all of the atoms listed. Among the options, Cl has the highest nuclear charge (largest atomic number) and therefore attracts its electrons more strongly, bringing them closer to the nucleus.

In Which of the Following Atoms Is the 2s Orbital