What is the maximum number of electrons that can be associated with the following set of quantum numbers ? n = 3, l = 1 and m = -1
- 4
- 2
- 10
- 6
Answer
(2) 2
Solution
n = 3 and l = 1 ⇒ 3p subshell.
m = -1 ⇒ one particular 3p orbital.
As per NCERT (Pauli exclusion principle), an orbital can hold at most two electrons, with opposite spins (ms = + 12 and - 12).
∴ Maximum number of electrons = 2
Answer: (2)