Chemistry Atomic Structure NUMS 2023
PMDC Verified Question 41 of 95
Total number of directions of f-orbitals in space are:
A
\( 05 \)
B
\( 03 \)
C
\( 07 \)
D
\( 06 \)
Tap any option to test your recall and reveal the step-by-step Propolis autopsy.

Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option C: \( 07 \)
Concept: The number of spatial directions (orientations) of an orbital type is determined by its azimuthal quantum number (\( l \)).

Formula: $$ \text{Directions} = 2l + 1 $$

Solution:
  • For an \( f \)-orbital, the azimuthal quantum number is \( l = 3 \).
  • Substitute into the orientation formula: \( 2(3) + 1 = 6 + 1 = 7 \).
  • Therefore, an \( f \)-subshell splits into 7 distinct spatial orientations in a magnetic field.


Why other options are incorrect: 3 is for \( p \)-orbitals. 5 is for \( d \)-orbitals. 6 is the maximum electron capacity of a \( p \)-subshell, not a number of directions.

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