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The figure is a three-dimensional representation of an atomic orbital. Which orbital does it represent?

OA. an s-orbital
N
O B. a single p-orbital
OC. three d-orbitals
D. three p-orbitals
Y
-X

The figure is a three-dimensional representation of an atomic orbital. Which orbital-example-1
User Gronostaj
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The described atomic orbital, shaped like a dum_bbell and oriented along a principal axis, is a single p-orbital. Therefore, the correct option is B.

Step-by-step explanation:

The figure in question represents a three-dimensional representation of an atomic orbital. If the orbital is shaped like a dum_bbell and points in a specific direction, such as along the x-, y-, or z-axis, then it is a representation of a single p-orbital. Thus, the correct answer to which orbital it represents is (B) a single p-orbital.

s-orbitals are spherical and there is only one per s subshell. The d-orbitals, on the other hand, have more complex shapes, with most being four-lobed rosettes and one in particular, the dz2 orbital, which has a 'dum_bbell + torus' shape, and there are five of these d orbitals.

User Entity
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