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Principal quantum number
The Principal quantum number (usually written n) is the first quantum number of an atomic orbital. It represents the relative overall energy, and hence also the average distance from the nucleus, of an orbital. The sets of orbitals with the same n-value are often referred to as electron shells or energy levels.
- The atomic orbitals with n=1 are said to be in the 'K'-shell
- The atomic orbitals with n=2 are said to be in the 'L'-shell
- The atomic orbitals with n=3 are said to be in the 'M'-shell
- The atomic orbitals with n=4 are said to be in the 'N'-shell
10-26-2009 08:16:03
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The contents of this article is licensed from www.wikipedia.org under the GNU Free Documentation License. Click here to see the transparent copy and copyright details