Question

What is the total number of orbitals in the third energy level (n = 3)?

• A. 9
• B. 16
• C. 4
• D. 3

Hint:

Remember: The number of orbitals in each energy level increases with the square of the principal quantum number \( n \). The formula is \( n^2 \).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

For the third energy level (\( n = 3 \)), there exist three distinct sublevels:

• The \( s \)-sublevel accommodates 1 orbital.
• The \( p \)-sublevel contains 3 orbitals.
• The \( d \)-sublevel comprises 5 orbitals.

The aggregate count of orbitals within the third energy level is determined by the summation of orbitals across all its sublevels:

\( 1 + 3 + 5 = 9 \)