Question

Two electrons with the same $n,l,andm$ values:

• A. must be in different atoms
• B. are in different orbitals of the same subshell
• C. are in the same orbital of the same subshell with opposite spins
• D. are indistinguishable from each other

Answer 1

Answer: (C)

are in the same orbital of the same subshell with opposite spins

An electron is associated with a set of four quantum numbers:

1. Principle quantum number (n): tells about the size of orbital

2. Azimuthal quantum number (l): tells about the shape of orbital

3. Magnetic quantum number ($m_l$):tells about orientation of orbital

4. Spin quantum number ($m_s$):tells about electron spin and can have value $+1/2$ and $-1/2$

Therefore electrons with same $n,l,m_l$ will be in the same orbital but with opposite spins.

Option C is correct