Humber Admissions Practice Test

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What does the orbital quantum number represent?

The main energy level
The shape of the orbital
The total number of electrons
The type of element

The correct answer is: The shape of the orbital

The orbital quantum number, also known as the azimuthal quantum number, specifically represents the shape of the orbital in which an electron can be found. This quantum number is designated by the letter "l" and can take on integer values from 0 up to n-1, where "n" is the principal quantum number associated with the main energy level. Each value of the orbital quantum number corresponds to a different orbital shape: for instance, when l=0, it indicates an s orbital which is spherical; l=1 corresponds to a p orbital which has a dumbbell shape; l=2 corresponds to a d orbital which has a more complex shape, and so on. Therefore, understanding the orbital quantum number is essential for visualizing the arrangement and the spatial distribution of electrons around the nucleus of an atom.