What is a Quantum Number?

What is a Quantum Number?

Quantum Numbers Definition

Quantum numbers are defined as values that describe the location, energy level, and spin of electrons in an atom.

Principal Quantum Number

This number, denoted as ‘n’, represents the main energy level or shell an electron occupies.

Orbital Quantum Number

Also known as the azimuthal quantum number, this number, denoted as ‘l’, indicates the subshell and shape of the orbital.

Magnetic Quantum Number

This number, denoted as ‘m or ml’, describes the orientation of orbitals within a subshell and ranges from -l to +l.

Spin Magnetic Quantum Number

This number, denoted as ‘ms’, represents the spin direction of an electron and can be either +1/2 or -1/2.