Question

Which of the following is a possible set of quantum numbers for an electron in 4f?

a) 4, 2, 2, +1/2
b) 4, 3, 3, +1/2
c) 4, 2, 1, -1/2
d) 4, 3, -4, 1/2

Answer 1

The possible set of quantum numbers for an electron in the 4f subshell is 4, 3, 3, +1/2. Option b

Step-by-step explanation:

The set of quantum numbers {n, l, me, ms} is used to describe the energy, shape, orientation, and spin of an electron in an atom. For the electron in the 4f subshell, the possible quantum numbers are as follows:

a) 4, 2, 2, +1/2

b) 4, 3, 3, +1/2

c) 4, 2, 1, -1/2

d) 4, 3, -4, 1/2

Out of these options, the only one that follows the restrictions for quantum numbers is option b) 4, 3, 3, +1/2. This set of quantum numbers is allowed and describes a valid electron in the 4f subshell. option b