P orbitals and single electron atoms

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the presence of p orbitals in hydrogen atoms, specifically whether a single electron can occupy the 2p orbital when excited. It is established that hydrogen, despite having only one electron, possesses all types of orbitals, including p, d, and f. The energy levels of these orbitals can be evaluated for hydrogen-like atoms, and it is noted that some higher orbitals exceed the ionization energy of hydrogen, limiting the promotion of the electron to those states.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of atomic structure and electron configurations
  • Familiarity with quantum mechanics and orbital theory
  • Knowledge of hydrogen-like atoms and their energy levels
  • Basic grasp of ionization energy concepts
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  • Research the concept of hydrogen-like atoms and their orbital characteristics
  • Study the energy levels and ionization energies of hydrogen and other single-electron atoms
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Students of chemistry, physicists, and educators seeking to deepen their understanding of atomic orbitals and electron behavior in hydrogen and similar atoms.

Cemre
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Hello,

does hydrogen atom with a single electron have p orbitals?

when the single electron of the hydrogen atom is excited, can it go to the 2p orbital?

are "p orbitals" consequence of electrons interacting with nucleus ( protons ) ?

or are "p orbitals" consequence of electrons interacting with other electrons around the atom nucleus? ( repulsion between electrons )

i made a quick search about this in the forum but I couldn't find anything.

Thanks.

PS: same question for d and f orbitals also.
 
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Yes indeed hydrogen has all the orbitals.

The actual energy values can only be analytically evaluated for what are known as
hydrogen-like atoms (look this term up).

I'm not sure how far an electron can be promoted as some of the higher orbitals are above the ionisation energy of hydrogen. Perhaps you could find this out both orbitals energy levels and ionisation energies are readily available.
 

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