Finding Total Number of Electron States with n=3

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SUMMARY

The total number of electron states for n = 3 is 18, as determined by considering the quantum numbers l and m along with electron spin. For n = 3, the possible values for l are 0, 1, and 2, leading to 9 distinct states from l alone. Each of these states can accommodate two spin orientations, resulting in a total of 18 quantum states. The error in the initial calculation arose from not accounting for all possible combinations of l and m values correctly.

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Homework Statement


n = 3
Using the fact that there are two quantum states for each value of l and m because of electron spin. Find the total number of electron states with n = 3.


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


I've already determined that l = 0, 1, 2
and m = -2, -1, 0, 1, 2

So, given the information I figured it would be 8 * 2 = 16 quantum states.
Unfortunately, it's supposed to be 18 quantum states and I fail to see where they pick up 2 extra ones. Does anyone know what I am doing incorrectly?
 
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Well for n = 3...

Set l = 2:
then m can take on the range of: -2,-1,0,1,2

Set l = 1:
m = {-1,0,1}

l = 0:
m = 0

There's 9 states.

EDIT: Think of, for n = 3, every independent quantum state by labelling your state:

\psi_{n,l,m}: \psi_{3,0,0} \neq \psi_{3,1,-1} \neq \psi_{3,1,0}

and so on..
 
Last edited:
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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