Quantum Numbers

C2 – General Chemistry 2
What is quantum numbers?
• It is a method of representing the distribution of
electrons in an atom.
• It uses numbers to represent the exact location
of electrons in an atom.
• These numbers were derived from Schrodinger’s
Quantum Equation.
QUANTUM NUMBERS
• There are 4 quantum numbers.
• In order to complete the set of quantum numbers of
an atom, all 4 quantum numbers must be present.

• A. Principal Quantum Number

•n = 1
•n = 2
•n = 3
•n = 4
QUANTUM NUMBERS
• B. Angular Quantum Number/Azimuthal or Orbital
• The symbol is l
•s=0
•p=1
•d=2
•f=3
QUANTUM NUMBERS
• C. Magnetic Quantum Number
• The symbol is ml
•s 0
•p -1, 0, 1
•d -2, -1, 0, 1, 2
•f -3, -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3
QUANTUM NUMBERS
• D. Spin Quantum Number
• The symbol is ms
• Upward spin = +1/2
• Downward spin = -1/2