What quantum numbers are needed to specify a hydrogenic atomic orbital?

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1 Answer
Ernest Z.
Oct 31, 2016

You need three quantum numbers, #n, l# and #m_l# to completely specify an orbital.

Explanation:

The principal quantum number, #n#, specifies the energy and the relative size of the orbital.

The azimuthal quantum number, #l#, specifies the shape of the orbital.

The magnetic quantum number, #m_l#, specifies the orientation of the orbital in space.

For example, each of the three 2p orbitals has a different set of #n, l# and #m_l#.

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