Quantum numbers

Quantum numbers

1. Arise from quantum mechanics

2. Are four parameters

   • 1
     • Principal quantum number
       • Specify main shells
         • With integral values beginning with unity
       • Related to the distance of an electron from the nucleus
   • 2
     • Indicate the subshell
       • Lowercase letter
         • s p d f
   • 3
     • Indicates the number of states
       • In each subshell
         • s=1 p=3 d=5 f=7
       • Every state can hold 2 electrons
   • 4
     • Spin moment
       • Must be oriented up or down
         • +1/2 or -1/2

3. Characterize every electron in an atom