Chemistry Atomic Structure BUMHS 2022
PMDC Verified Question 60 of 95
With the increase in the value of principal quantum number "\(n\)" the size of the s-orbitals?
A
Decrease
B
Increase
C
May or may not remain the same
D
Remain the same
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option B: Increase
Concept: The principal quantum number \(n\) determines the main energy level and the average distance of the electron cloud from the nucleus.

Formula: $$ r \propto n^2 $$

Solution:
  • The radius of an orbital is directly tied to the square of the principal quantum number.
  • As \( n \) steps up from 1 to 2 to 3 (e.g., \( 1s \rightarrow 2s \rightarrow 3s \)), the electron occupies higher energy states that pull it further away from the attractive pull of the nucleus.
  • Consequently, the physical volume and size of the s-orbital consistently increases.


Why other options are incorrect: The size of an orbital cannot decrease or remain static as higher energy shells inherently encompass a larger spatial volume.

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