Question

The following radial probability diagram could theoretically represent which orbital(s)? Select as many answers as are correct. Points will be deducted for incorrect guessing. Do not worry about the numerical values on the xly axes. Just focus on the general shape of the function rR(r)? . 8 12 16 20 24 28 40 32 36 r/ao

Answer 1

The radial probability diagram shows that there is no radial nodes. For an orbital the number of radial nodes are given by n-l-1; where n is the principal quantum number and l is the azimuthal quantum number.

For an 1s orbital number of radial nodes = 1-0-1 = 0

For an 2s orbital number of radial nodes = 2-0-1 = 1

For an 3s orbital number of radial nodes = 3-0-1=2

For a 2p orbital number of radial nodes = 2-1-1 = 0

For a 3p orbital number of radial nodes = 3-1-1 = 1

For a 3d orbital number of radial nodes = 3-2-1 = 0

Therefor, 1s, 2p and 3d orbitals do not have any radial nodes. Hence, the above radial probability diagram theoretically represents 1s, 2p and 3d orbitals.