Question

Which of the following set of quantum numbers represents the highest energy of an atom?

• A. $n=3,l=2,m=1,s=+\frac{1}{2}$
• B. $n=4,l=0,m=0,s=-\frac{1}{2}$
• C. $n=3,l=0,m=4,s=+\frac{1}{2}$
• D. $n=3,l=1,m=1,s=+\frac{1}{2}$

Answer 1

The correct option is A $n=3,l=2,m=1,s=+\frac{1}{2}$

Energy is directly proportional to the sum of principal quantum number ($n$) and azimuthal quantum number ($l$).

$\therefore$ For option (A), $(n+l)$ is maximum, hence it will show the highest energy of an atom.

Hence, option $A$ is correct.