Question

If the azimuthal quantum number of an electron is zero, then the shape of its orbital will be

• A. Circular
• B. Spherical
• C. Elliptical
• D. Dumbbell

Answer 1

The correct option is B

Spherical

The explanation for the correct option: (B)

1. The azimuthal quantum number (l) determines the shapes of the orbitals.
2. Its values depend on the principal quantum number (n) value. For a given value of ‘n’, it can have any integral value ranging from $0$ to $\text{n-1}$.
3. The value of ‘n’ for $\text{'}\mathrm{s}\text{'}$ orbital is $1$. Thus its azimuthal quantum number is $0$ and the shape of $\text{'}\mathrm{s}\text{'}$ orbital is spherical.

The explanation for the incorrect options:

(A) There is no orbital having a circular shape.

(C) There is no orbital having the elliptical shape

(D) The shape of the p-orbital is dumb-bell and in the p-orbital, the azimuthal quantum number of an electron is one.

Hence option (B) is correct - If the azimuthal quantum number of an electron is zero, then the shape of its orbital will be spherical.