Question

An electron has the following set of quantum numbers: n = 3, l = 2, ml = -1, ms = -½. What is the quantum state of the electron?

1) 3s
2) 3p
3) 3d
4) 3f

Answer 1

The quantum state of an electron with the given quantum numbers is 3d. The correct answer is option 3).

Step-by-step explanation:

The quantum state of an electron is determined by its set of quantum numbers: n, l, ml, and ms. In this case, the electron has n = 3, l = 2, ml = -1, and ms = -½.

The quantum state is determined by the values of n and l. The n value represents the principal quantum number and determines the energy level of the electron, while the l value represents the angular momentum quantum number and determines the sublevel or orbital of the electron.

In this case, since n = 3, the energy level is the third energy level. Since l = 2, the sublevel or orbital is a d orbital. Therefore, the quantum state of the electron is 3d.