Magnetic Quantum Number

Magnetic Quantum Number Definition

The magnetic quantum number of an electron is one of the four quantum numbers that state the position of the electron with respect to the nucleus. The other three are-

  • Principal quantum number
  • Azimuthal quantum number
  • Spin quantum number

The magnetic quantum number is the third on the list between spin and azimuthal quantum number. It splits the sub-shells (such as s,p,d,f) into individual orbitals and places the electron in one of them. It defines the orientation in space of a given orbital of particular energy (n) and shape (I).

In each sub-shell, the number of orbitals is given as 2+1, where is the azimuthal quantum number. By that process, we can find out the orbital in every sub-shell.

Since the magnetic quantum number is dependent on the azimuthal quantum number, its value ranges from – to +, including 0.

For example, the s sub-shell has only one orbital. The p sub-shell has 3 and d has 5, and so on.

Magnetic Quantum Number

How to find Magnetic Quantum Number?

Quantum numbers in general and magnetic quantum numbers in particular can be derived while solving the Schrodinger equationHowever, boundaries or constraints need to be put in place to match the equations with the physical world. The magnetic quantum number can be derived from solving the azimuthal equation of the hydrogen Schrodinger equation.

Magnetic Quantum Number

What does the Magnetic Quantum Number Determine?

The magnetic quantum number primarily determines the number of orbitals and the orientation of orbitals in a given sub-shell. Consequently, it is dependent on the orbital angular momentum quantum number, also known as the azimuthal quantum number.

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Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

Q1

What is magnetic quantum number?

The magnetic quantum number of an electron is one of the four quantum numbers that state the position of the electron with respect to the nucleus.
Q2

What are the various type of quantum numbers?

Various types of quantum numbers are:
  • Principal quantum number
  • Magnetic quantum number
  • Azimuthal quantum number
  • Spin quantum number
  • Q3

    How many orbitals are present in p subshell?

    Three orbitals are present in p subshell.
    Q4

    How many electrons can a f subshell accomodate?

    The f-subshell can accomodate maximum 14 electrons.
    Q5

    State true or false: The magnetic quantum number basically helps to find the number of orbitals and the orientation of orbitals in a given sub-shell.

    True.
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