Question

How many p orbitals are in a p sublevel?

A) 1
B) 2
C) 3
D) 4

Answer 1

There are three p orbitals in a p sublevel. This corresponds to the magnetic quantum numbers -1, 0, and +1 and is the correct answer to the multiple-choice question, option C).

Step-by-step explanation:

The question you've asked relates to the number of p orbitals present in a p sublevel. Orbitals are regions within an atom where electrons are most likely to be found. Each orbital can hold a maximum of two electrons. Within the atomic model, sublevels are denoted by quantum numbers and each type of sublevel corresponds to a specific shape and number of orbitals.

For a given quantum number n, p orbitals make up a p subshell (for example, 3p if n = 3), and it is denoted by the quantum number l = 1. A p subshell consists of three orbitals, each with a different spatial orientation. This is because for l = 1, the magnetic quantum number m can have three values: −1, 0, +1. Consequently, there are three p orbitals in a p sublevel, which correspond to C) 3 in your multiple-choice question.

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