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Question about Quantum Number Sets?

I wanted to know: how do you figure out if a quantum number set is possible? Thanks--I really need this information to help me study for my midterm.

2 Answers

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  • 1 decade ago
    Favorite Answer

    you can tell if the set is possible by remembering the following:

    n is always a whole number larger than 0

    l must be between 0 and n-1

    m will include all the numbers between -l and +l (letter l), ie if l=2, then the possible m values will be -2, -1, 0, +1, +2

    s will be either +1/2 or -1/2

  • 1 decade ago

    The value of principal quantum no which describes the size of the orbital is a natural no. i.e- n=1,2,3,4,5,6...............

    The value of azimuthal quantum no which describes the shape of the orbital is -

    L=0 to (n-1)

    {the L is written in small letters but it resembles with capital i }

    The magnetic quantum no. which describes the orientation of orbital in magnetic field is -

    m= -l to +l {including 0}

    The spin quantum no. which describes the spin of the electron is +1/2 or -1/2

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