Question

An atom of element number 33 (As) is in its ground electronic state. Which one of the following sets quantum numbers could not apply to any of its electrons?
A) n=2 l=1 ml= -1 ms= 1/2
B) n=3 l=0 ml=0 ms= -1/2
C) n=3 l=2 ml=-2 ms= -1/2
D) n=4 l=0 ml=0 ms= -1/2
E) n=4 l=2 ml=1 ms= 1/2

Answer 1

Answer:

E) n=4 l=2 ml=1 ms= 1/2

Explanation:

Arsenic is a member of group 15 in the periodic table. Its electronic configuration is;

1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 4s2 3d10 4p3. Its condensed electronic configuration can be written as [Ar]4s2 3d10 4p3. This electronic configuration shown here can now enable us to consider each option given in the question in order to meaningfully arrive at a logical answer.

If we look at option E, the data given for that electron is; n=4 l=2 ml=1 ms= 1/2. This refers to an electron in a 4d orbital. In the ground state configuration of arsenic shown above, there is no 4d orbital, hence option E must be the correct answer.