How many electrons in an orbital?

In summary, there is one electron in each quantum state, as orbital diagrams may show two electrons in one orbital but they actually represent two quantum states with opposite electron spins.
  • #1
Jules18
102
0
I've always been confused about how many electrons are in an orbital ... is it one, or two?

Because orbital diagrams would lead me to believe there were two, since there are two arrows on each line, but illustrations make me think otherwise.

Thanks ahead of time o:)
 
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  • #2
There is one electron in each quantum state.

In the orbital diagrams that show two electrons in an orbital, each of those orbitals actually represents two quantum states. Spatially, the two states (wavefunctions) have the same "shape," but their electron spins are pointing in opposite directions.
 
  • #3
To supplement diazona, by definition an atomic orbital can accommodate 2 electrons of opposite spin.
 

1. How do you determine the number of electrons in an orbital?

The number of electrons in an orbital is determined by the quantum numbers associated with that orbital. The principal quantum number (n) indicates the energy level of the orbital, while the azimuthal quantum number (l) indicates the shape of the orbital. The number of electrons in an orbital is equal to 2n^2, where n is the principal quantum number.

2. Can an orbital have more than 2 electrons?

Yes, an orbital can hold a maximum of 2 electrons with opposite spins. However, some orbitals can have more than 2 electrons if they are in different energy levels or have different values for the azimuthal quantum number.

3. How does the number of electrons in an orbital affect the atom's properties?

The number of electrons in an orbital can affect an atom's properties in several ways. For example, the number of valence electrons in an atom determines its reactivity and ability to form chemical bonds. Additionally, the number of electrons in an atom's outermost energy level can determine its ionization energy and electronegativity.

4. Are all orbitals in an atom occupied by electrons?

No, not all orbitals in an atom are occupied by electrons. According to the Aufbau principle, electrons fill orbitals in order of increasing energy, so some orbitals may be empty if there are not enough electrons to fill them. Additionally, some orbitals may be unoccupied due to electron repulsion or other factors.

5. Can the number of electrons in an orbital change?

Yes, the number of electrons in an orbital can change due to various factors such as chemical reactions, ionization, and excitation. When an atom undergoes a chemical reaction, electrons can be transferred or shared, resulting in a change in the number of electrons in different orbitals. Additionally, when an atom absorbs energy, electrons can be excited to higher energy levels, changing the number of electrons in those orbitals.

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