Atomic Orbital

In-depth explanation of Atomic Orbital

An atomic orbital is a one-electron wave function that describes a region of space around the nucleus where the electron is likely to be found. Orbitals are often drawn as the surface enclosing about 90 percent of the probability. Each orbital is characterised by a set of quantum numbers, and it holds at most two electrons of opposite spin. Orbitals are not paths or orbits; they describe probability clouds. The shape and energy of an orbital determine how atoms bond and how they absorb light.

Going deeper: Atomic Orbital

Key ideas: An orbital is a one-electron wave function with a particular shape and energy, defined by n, l, ml, and holds at most 2 electrons. The boundary surface usually encloses about 90 percent probability. Number of orbitals: s 1, p 3, d 5, f 7. Energy order in H depends on n only, in many-electron atoms on n + l.

Common mistakes and connections: Students confuse orbit with orbital: an orbit is a path, an orbital is a probability region. Another error is assuming the surface plot is a solid shell where the electron stays. Orbitals are combined in hybridization and molecular orbital theory.

Visualization of Atomic Orbital

The 1s orbital is a spherical cloud of probability, densest near the nucleus, within which the electron is most likely to be found. The interactive lesson shows this as a live animation or chart.

Worked example and use case

The 1s orbital is spherically symmetric, so its electron density depends only on the distance from the nucleus.

Where Atomic Orbital fits in Atomic Structure & Periodicity

Atomic Orbital is topic 52 of 115 in Atomic Structure & Periodicity.

Related topics

• Heisenberg Uncertainty PrincipleIntermediate
• Wave FunctionAdvanced
• Schrodinger EquationAdvanced
• Principal Quantum NumberBeginner
• Azimuthal Quantum NumberIntermediate
• Magnetic Quantum NumberIntermediate

Browse all 115 topics in Atomic Structure & Periodicity