University Physics with Modern Physics (14th Edition)

Published by Pearson
ISBN 10: 0321973615
ISBN 13: 978-0-32197-361-0

Chapter 41 - Quantum Mechanics II: Atomic Structure - Problems - Discussion Questions - Page 1401: Q41.6

Answer

Both situations are possible.

Work Step by Step

The electrons might have the same principal quantum number n, but have different orbital quantum numbers, l. Their orbital angular momenta would be different. As a concrete example, consider an electron in the 2s state in one atom, and an electron in the 2p state in another. The electrons might have the same orbital quantum number, l, but have different principal quantum numbers n. As a concrete example, consider an electron in the 1s state in one atom, and an electron in the 2s state in another.
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