Quantum Numbers: Why (3,-2,0,1/2) is Invalid

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Feodalherren
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Homework Statement


Why isn't (3, -2 , 0 , 1/2) a valid quantum number?


Homework Equations





The Attempt at a Solution


n=3

so l = -2 is valid.

-l≤Ml≤l

2≤Ml≤-2
nonsensical statement. I don't know what to do...
 
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Feodalherren said:

Homework Statement


Why isn't (3, -2 , 0 , 1/2) a valid quantum number?

Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution


n=3

so l = -2 is valid.

-l≤Ml≤l

2≤Ml≤-2
nonsensical statement. I don't know what to do...

No, l=-2 is not valid. l is always non-negative.
 
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Ah so it's that simple... Thanks.
 
I agree.
n = 3
l = 0, 1, 2
ml = -2, -1, 0, 1, 2
ms = -1/2 or 1/2

l cannot be negative, but ml can be.