Question

If the azimuthal quantum number ($l$) value increases, the total number of orientations of orbital:

• A. increases
• B. decreases
• C. remains constant
• D. first increases and then decreases

Answer 1

The correct option is A increases

The magnetic quantum number distinguishes the orbitals available within a subshell, and is used to calculate the azimuthal component of the orientation of orbital in space. Electrons in a particular subshell (such as s, p, d, or f) are defined by values of $l$ (0, 1, 2, or 3). The value of m can range from $-\ell$ to $+\ell$, inclusive of zero. Thus the s, p, d, and f subshells contain 1, 3, 5, and 7 orbitals each, with values of $m$ within the ranges 0, ±1, ±2, ±3 respectively.