Question

Identify an orbital with the quantum numbers $n = 4$, $l = 3$, $m = 0$.

• A. 4f
• B. 4p
• C. 4s
• D. 4d

Hint:

Always memorize the basic alphabet code for the azimuthal quantum number $l$: 0, 1, 2, 3 maps directly to s, p, d, f. Since $n=4$ and $l=3$, it has to be 4f!

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Step 1: Read n.
The value $n = 4$ tells us the orbital is in the fourth shell.

Step 2: Read l.
The value of $l$ sets the subshell: 0 is s, 1 is p, 2 is d, 3 is f. Here $l = 3$, so it is an f subshell.

Step 3: Combine.
Fourth shell plus f subshell gives a 4f orbital, and $m = 0$ is a valid orientation for it.
\[ \boxed{\text{4f, option 1}} \]