Final answer:
The shapes of atomic orbitals are determined by the value of the angular momentum quantum number, denoted as l. S orbitals have a spherical shape, p orbitals have a dum`b`bell shape, d orbitals have more complex shapes with nodal surfaces, and f orbitals are even more complex.
Step-by-step explanation:
There are four types of atomic orbitals: s orbitals, p orbitals, d orbitals, and f orbitals.
S orbitals have a spherical shape and are symmetrical. P orbitals have a dum`b`bell shape, with three possible p orbitals that are always perpendicular to each other. D orbitals have more complex shapes with at least two nodal surfaces, while f orbitals are even more complex.
The shapes of the atomic orbitals are important in determining how atoms bond together to form molecules. When atoms bond, a more complete understanding of the electron distribution requires a model that can account for the electronic structure of molecules. This is where valence bond theory and hybridization come into play.