Quantum number and electronic configuration

In summary, quantum numbers are values used to describe the properties of electrons in an atom, such as their energy, spin, and location. Each electron in an atom has a unique set of quantum numbers, which determine its electronic configuration, or the arrangement of electrons in different energy levels and orbitals. These numbers follow specific rules and principles, such as the Pauli exclusion principle and Hund's rule, to determine the most stable and energetically favorable configuration for an atom. Understanding quantum numbers and electronic configuration is essential in studying the behavior and properties of atoms and molecules in chemistry and physics.
  • #1
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Homework Statement


The problem is: find all possible quantum numbers for each electronic configure of carbon.


2. The attempt at a solution
I don't quite understand what the question is asking. Does it ask first write down the electronic configuration and write down all quantum number combination? Like the following

The electronic configuration for carbon is [tex]1S^2 2S^2 2P^2[/tex]

1) n=1, l=0
because 2s+1=2 => s=1/2
ms = 1/2, -1/2

2) n=2, l=0 or 1

so,

n=2, l=0, ms=1/2, -1/2

n=2, l=1, ms=1/2, -1/2
 
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  • #2
Looks good for the most part, but there is also ml to consider.
 
  • #3
Redbelly98 said:
Looks good for the most part, but there is also ml to consider.

ml? What's that?
 
  • #5
Redbelly98 said:
You can think of it as describing the orientation of the orbital, and is related to l which describes the orbital's shape.

http://www.vectorsite.net/tpqm_04.html

Thanks
 

1. What are quantum numbers and why are they important in understanding electronic configuration?

Quantum numbers are a set of four numbers that describe the properties of an electron in an atom, including its energy level, orbital shape, orientation, and spin. They are important because they allow us to understand how electrons are arranged in an atom and how they behave.

2. What is the significance of the principal quantum number?

The principal quantum number (n) indicates the energy level of an electron and also determines the size of the orbital. This number can have values of 1, 2, 3, and so on, with higher values corresponding to higher energy levels.

3. How do the other quantum numbers (l, m, s) contribute to the electronic configuration?

The orbital angular momentum quantum number (l) determines the shape of the orbital, the magnetic quantum number (m) determines the orientation of the orbital, and the spin quantum number (s) indicates the spin of the electron. Together, these numbers help to determine the exact location and behavior of an electron in an atom.

4. How can we determine the electronic configuration of an atom using quantum numbers?

The electronic configuration of an atom is determined by assigning the correct values to the four quantum numbers for each electron. The principal quantum number determines the energy level, the orbital angular momentum and magnetic quantum numbers determine the sublevel and orientation of the orbital, and the spin quantum number determines the spin of the electron. By following the rules for filling orbitals, we can determine the electronic configuration of an atom.

5. Are there any exceptions or anomalies in electronic configurations that cannot be explained by quantum numbers?

There are some exceptions, such as the anomalous electronic configurations of chromium and copper, which cannot be explained solely by following the rules for filling orbitals based on quantum numbers. These exceptions can be explained by considering the stability and energy of the atom as a whole, rather than just individual electrons.

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