Question Details

For Rb(37) which of the following set of quantum numbers are correct for valence electron?

Options

A

5, 0, 0, +(1/2)

B

5, 0, 1, -(1/2)

C

5, 0, 1, +(1/2)

D

5, 1, 1, +(1/2)

Correct Answer :

5, 0, 0, +(1/2)

Solution :

To find the correct set of quantum numbers for the valence electron of Rubidium (Rb), we first need to determine its electronic configuration.

Rubidium has an atomic number of Z = 37.
The noble gas configuration preceding Rubidium is Krypton (Kr, Z = 36).
Therefore, the ground-state electronic configuration of Rubidium (Rb) is:
[Kr] 5s1

The valence electron of Rubidium is the single electron in the outermost shell, which resides in the 5s orbital.

Now, let's determine the four quantum numbers (n, l, m or ml, s or ms) for this 5s1 electron:

1. Principal Quantum Number (n): Represents the main energy level or shell. Since the valence electron is in the 5s orbital, n = 5.

2. Azimuthal (Orbital Angular Momentum) Quantum Number (l): Defines the shape of the orbital (s = 0, p = 1, d = 2, f = 3). For an s orbital, l = 0.

3. Magnetic Quantum Number (ml): Specifies the orientation of the orbital in space, ranging from -l to +l. For l = 0, the only possible value is ml = 0.

4. Spin Quantum Number (ms): Describes the spin orientation of the electron, which can be either +1/2 (spin-up) or -1/2 (spin-down). For a single electron in an orbital, it is conventionally written as +1/2.

Combining these values, the set of quantum numbers (n, l, ml, ms) for the valence electron of Rubidium is:
5, 0, 0, +(1/2)

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