Question

What is the significance of the quantum number m when specifying energy eigenfunction or orbital of atoms?

O it indicates the orientation of the denotes
O the size of an eigenfunction or represents
O the shape of the represents
O the magnitude of the angular momentum of the orbital.

Answer 1

Correct option: a) it indicates the orientation of the denotes

The magnetic quantum number (m) specifies the orientation of an atomic orbital in a three-dimensional space around the nucleus, with possible values defined by the angular momentum quantum number (l).

Step-by-step explanation:

The magnetic quantum number, denoted as m, has a crucial role in specifying the energy eigenfunction or orbital of atoms.

This quantum number is associated with the orientation of an atomic orbital around the nucleus.

Specifically, it defines the orientation of the orbital in a three-dimensional space, which can be any of the three Cartesian planes (x, y, and z).

For a given value of the angular momentum quantum number, l, there are (2l + 1) possible orientations, which results in the same number of magnetic quantum numbers, ranging from -l to l, including zero.

For example, if n = 2 and l = 1, m can have values of -1, 0, or +1, corresponding to different orientations of a p-orbital within the same subshell.