10.1 Quantum Numbers and Electron Configuration

This set of flashcards covers key terms related to quantum mechanics, focusing on quantum numbers and electron configurations as discussed in the lecture.

Schrodinger Equation

A mathematical equation used to describe the wave function of a quantum system.

Quantum Numbers

Set of four numbers that describe the unique state of an electron in an atom.

Principal Quantum Number (n)

Indicates the energy level and distance of an electron from the nucleus.

Angular Momentum Quantum Number (l)

Defines the shape of an orbital and is dependent on the principal quantum number.

Magnetic Quantum Number (m sub l)

Indicates the orientation of an orbital in space, derived from the angular momentum quantum number.

Pauli Exclusion Principle

No two electrons in an atom can have the same set of four quantum numbers.

s Orbital

An orbital with a spherical shape, represented by l=0.

p Orbital

An orbital with a dumbbell shape, represented by l=1.

d Orbital

An orbital with more complex shapes, represented by l=2.

f Orbital

An orbital with even more complex shapes, represented by l=3.

Electron Spin

A quantum property of electrons that can be either clockwise or counterclockwise, represented as +1/2 or -1/2.

Probability Density

The likelihood of finding an electron in a given region of space around the nucleus.

Electron Configuration

The arrangement of electrons in an atom's orbitals using quantum numbers to describe their state.

Helium Atomic Structure

Helium has two electrons, both in the first energy level with unique spin states.

Nodes

Regions in an orbital where the probability of finding an electron is zero.