Question

Which of the following statements regarding an orbital are correct?

• A. An orbital is a definite trajectory around the nucleus in which electron can move
• B. An orbital always has spherical trajectory
• C. An orbital is the region around the nucleus where is 90 - 95% probability of finding an electron of an atom
• D. An orbital is characterized by 3 quantum numbers n, l and m

Answer 1

Answer: (C), (D)

An orbital is the region around the nucleus where is 90 - 95% probability of finding an electron of an atom
An orbital is characterized by 3 quantum numbers n, l and m

An orbital has a set of numbers obtained from the solution of Schrodinger equation which describe the energies of electrons in atoms, information about the shape and orientations of the most probable distribution of electrons around the nucleus. These numbers are quantum numbers. An orbital is characterised by 3 unique set of quantum number namely principle ($n$), azimuthal ($l$) and magnetic ($m$) quantum numbers.