AAMC FL Practice Exam

What are the quantum numbers associated with electron clouds?

1. p, d, f, s

2. n, l, ml, ms

3. m, n, o, p

4. a, b, c, d

The correct answer is: n, l, ml, ms

The correct choice identifies the four quantum numbers that describe the properties of electron clouds in an atom. These quantum numbers are essential for understanding the arrangement of electrons around the nucleus and include: 1. **Principal quantum number (n)**: This number indicates the energy level of an electron in an atom and its average distance from the nucleus. It can take on positive integer values (1, 2, 3, ...), with larger numbers corresponding to electrons that are further from the nucleus and generally at higher energy levels. 2. **Azimuthal quantum number (l)**: This number defines the shape of the electron cloud or orbital. Its values range from 0 to (n-1) for a given principal quantum number. Each value of l corresponds to a specific type of orbital (0 = s, 1 = p, 2 = d, 3 = f), which influences the electron's distribution in three-dimensional space. 3. **Magnetic quantum number (ml)**: This number specifies the orientation of an orbital in space. Its possible values range from -l to +l, including zero. This determines how the orbital is positioned relative to the other orbitals. 4. **Spin quantum number (ms)**: This number