Significance of Quantum Numbers
Quantum numbers are significant because they can be used to estimate an atom’s electron configuration and where its electrons are most likely to be located. The atomic radius and ionization energy of atoms, among other properties, is also determined by quantum numbers.
Each Quantum Number has its own significance which is describe in the following table:
|
Number |
Symbol |
Possible Values |
Significance |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Principal Quantum Number |
n |
1, 2, 3, 4, 5,….. |
It describes the electron levels of an atom. |
|
Azimuthal Quantum Number |
l |
0, 1, 2, 3,…. (n-1) |
It represents the shape of the electron cloud. |
|
Magnetic Quantum Number |
ml |
-l,…., -1, 0, 1,…., l |
It explains the orientation of the electron cloud. |
|
Spin Quantum Number |
s |
+1/2,-1/2 |
It tells the spin electrons can have. |
Quantum Numbers
Quantum numbers in Chemistry, are the sets of numbers that describe an electron’s orbit and movement within an atom. When the quantum numbers of all the electrons in a given atom are added together, they must satisfy the Schrodinger equation.
Quantum numbers are the set of numbers used to describe the position and energy of an electron in an atom. There are four types of quantum numbers: principal, azimuthal, magnetic, and spin. Quantum numbers represent the values of a quantum system’s conserved quantities.
Let’s learn about all the quantum numbers in detail in this article.
Table of Content
- What are Quantum Numbers?
- Types of Quantum Numbers
- Significance of Quantum Numbers
- Atomic Orbital
- Other Laws Related to the Position and Path of Electrons