Question

Select the correct set of quantum numbers (n, l, ml, ms) for the highest energy electron in the ground state of tin, Sn.

A) (4, 2, -2, -1/2)
B) (3, 1, 1, 1/2)
C) (5, 0, 0, -1/2)
D) (4, 3, -1, 1/2)

Answer 1

The correct set of quantum numbers for the highest energy electron in the ground state of tin (Sn) is (5, 0, 0, -1/2)

Step-by-step explanation:

To determine the correct set of quantum numbers for the highest energy electron in the ground state of tin (Sn), we need to understand the electronic configuration of tin. According to the periodic table, the electronic configuration of tin is [Kr]5s24d105p2. The highest energy electron will be in the 5p orbital.

The quantum numbers for the highest energy electron in the 5p orbital are (5, 1, ml, ms). Here, n = 5 represents the principal quantum number, l = 1 represents the azimuthal quantum number, ml represents the magnetic quantum number, and ms represents the spin quantum number.

From the given options, only option C) (5, 0, 0, -1/2) satisfies the criteria for the highest energy electron in the ground state of tin.