Chapter 5, Problem 2STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation: The orbitals with the same shape need to be identified.

Concept Introduction:

Orbital is defined as a mathematical function to explain the wave nature of an electron. Atomic orbitals are present in space around the nucleus of an atom. The most common atomic orbitals are s , p , d, and f . The shape of the s -orbital is spherical having the nucleus at the center; thus, all s orbitals irrespective of the principal quantum number are spherical. The shape of the p -orbital is a dumbbell. There are 5 d -orbitals out of which 4 orbitals have a cloverleaf shape and the shape of the 5^th orbital is an elongated dumbbell with a doughnut in the middle.

Answer to Problem 2STP

The correct option is (B).

Explanation of Solution

Reason for correct option:

The two orbitals given in option (B) are 2s and 3s .

Here, both the orbitals are s only the principal quantum number is different. Both s orbitals have the same spherical shape.

Thus, option (B) is correct.

Conclusion

Reason for incorrect options:

The two orbitals given in option (A) are 2s and 2p .

The given orbitals are different. Here, the s orbital is spherical in shape and the p orbital has a dumbbell shape. They don’t have the same shape. Thus, option (A) is incorrect.

The two orbitals given in option (C) are 3p and 3d .

The given orbitals are different. Here, the p orbital has a dumbbell shape and the d orbital has either a cloverleaf shape or an elongated dumbbell shape; thus, option (C) is incorrect.

Only one option is correct that is option (B); thus, option (D) is also incorrect.