What is the maximum number of electrons that can occupy one orbital?
A. 1
B. 2
C. 8
D. 6
Answer (2)
The Pauli Exclusion Principle dictates that no two electrons can have the same four quantum numbers.
An orbital is defined by three quantum numbers (n, l, ml).
Each orbital can hold a maximum of two electrons with opposite spins (+1/2 and -1/2).
Therefore, the maximum number of electrons that can occupy one orbital is 2 .
Explanation
Understanding the Question The question asks about the maximum number of electrons that can occupy one orbital. We need to recall the basic principles of atomic structure to answer this question.
Recalling the Pauli Exclusion Principle According to the Pauli Exclusion Principle, no two electrons in an atom can have the same set of four quantum numbers. An orbital is defined by three quantum numbers: the principal quantum number (n), the azimuthal quantum number (l), and the magnetic quantum number (ml).
Determining the Maximum Number of Electrons Each orbital can hold a maximum of two electrons. These two electrons must have opposite spins, which are described by the spin quantum number (ms), which can be either +1/2 or -1/2. This means that one orbital can accommodate two electrons with different spin quantum numbers.
Conclusion Therefore, the maximum number of electrons that can occupy one orbital is 2.
Examples
Understanding the electron capacity of orbitals is crucial in chemistry for predicting how atoms will bond to form molecules. For example, knowing that each orbital can hold a maximum of two electrons helps us understand the electronic configuration of atoms like carbon, which has six electrons. These electrons fill the orbitals in a specific order, dictating how carbon atoms interact with other atoms to form a vast array of organic compounds, essential for life.
The maximum number of electrons that can occupy one orbital is 2, as dictated by the Pauli Exclusion Principle which states that no two electrons in an atom can have the same set of quantum numbers. Each orbital can hold two electrons with opposite spins (+1/2 and -1/2). Therefore, the answer is B. 2.
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