Question:medium

An electron is in one of the 3d orbitals. Give the possible values of n, l and ml for this electron.

Updated On: Jan 21, 2026
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Solution and Explanation

Concept Used:

The notation 3d indicates the principal energy level and the type of subshell.


Step 1: Principal quantum number (n)

For a 3d orbital:

n = 3


Step 2: Azimuthal quantum number (l)

For a d-orbital:

l = 2


Step 3: Magnetic quantum number (ml)

For l = 2, possible values of ml range from −l to +l:

ml = −2, −1, 0, +1, +2


Final Answer:

Possible quantum numbers for an electron in a 3d orbital are:

n = 3,
l = 2,
ml = −2, −1, 0, +1, +2

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