Of the orbitals shown,the one with the lowest energy is
A)2s
B)3s
C)3d
D)3p

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the Aufbau principle, electrons fill the lowest energy orbitals first. Among the given options, 2s would have the lowest energy since it is in the first principal energy level and closest to the nucleus. Also, the effective nuclear charge (Zeff) experienced by the 2s orbital electrons is lower as compared to the orbitals beyond the first energy level, making it lower in energy. Therefore, the correct answer is option A) 2s.

Of the Orbitals Shown,the One with the Lowest Energy Is