Can l Be Equal to 4 in Quantum Numbers?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The angular momentum quantum number (l) can take specific values based on the principal quantum number (n). For n = 3, the possible values of l are 0, 1, and 2; for n = 4, the values of l are 0, 1, 2, and 3. The discussion confirms that l cannot equal 4, as it exceeds the defined limits for quantum numbers. Therefore, l can only be equal to 2 or 3 when n is 3.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum numbers: principal (n), angular momentum (l), and magnetic (ml).
  • Familiarity with quantum mechanics principles and atomic structure.
  • Knowledge of the relationship between quantum numbers and electron configurations.
  • Basic grasp of the rules governing quantum states and their limitations.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the quantum number rules for various principal quantum numbers.
  • Study the implications of quantum numbers on electron configurations in atoms.
  • Explore the significance of angular momentum in quantum mechanics.
  • Learn about the Pauli exclusion principle and its relation to quantum numbers.
USEFUL FOR

Students of quantum mechanics, physics educators, and anyone studying atomic structure and electron configurations will benefit from this discussion.

protractor
Messages
17
Reaction score
1
Homework Statement
A hydrogen atom orbital has n=5 and ml=-2. What are the possible values of l for this orbital?
Relevant Equations
n=5 ml=-2
n is the principal quantum number.
l is the angular momentum quantum number.
ml is the magnetic quantum number.

The possible values of l are 2, 3, and 4. I'm not sure if l can be equal to 4.

On the answer key, it shows l = 2, 3.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
protractor said:
I'm not sure if l can be equal to 4.

Values it can take are very precisely specified, have you checked what does the specification say?
 

Similar threads

Why Are Multiple Quantum Numbers Allowed in a Hydrogen Atom?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
Undergrad Angular Momentum Vector and Its Magnitude
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
2K
Undergrad Are certain combinations of quantum numbers (basis vectors) forbidden?
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
Undergrad Why is m_j not a good quantum number in strong-field Zeeman effect?
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
2K
Probability of the outcomes of ##J^2## and ##J_{z}##?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Undergrad How Do Quantum Numbers Influence Energy Levels in Atomic Systems?
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
Graduate A good quantum number for Cnv symmetry?
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
Angular Momentum- Conserved or not?
  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
937
Quantum Numbers: Why (3,-2,0,1/2) is Invalid
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
Find velocities when a mass leaves a system of a rod with two masses
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K