Magnetic quantum number specifies

Options

A. size of orbitals
B. shape of orbitals
C. orientation of orbitals in space
D. nuclear stability.

Answer

To answer the question "Magnetic quantum number specifies," we need to understand the role of quantum numbers in atomic structure, particularly focusing on the magnetic quantum number (M).

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Quantum Numbers**:
- Quantum numbers are values that describe the unique quantum state of an electron in an atom. They arise from the solutions to the Schrödinger wave equation.

2. **Types of Quantum Numbers**:
- There are four types of quantum numbers:
- **Principal Quantum Number (n)**: Indicates the energy level and size of the orbital.
- **Azimuthal Quantum Number (l)**: Indicates the shape of the orbital.
- **Magnetic Quantum Number (m)**: Indicates the orientation of the orbital in space.
- **Spin Quantum Number (s)**: Indicates the spin of the electron.

3. **Focus on Magnetic Quantum Number (m)**:
- The magnetic quantum number (m) can take on integer values ranging from -l to +l, where l is the azimuthal quantum number. This means that for a given value of l, there are (2l + 1) possible values for m.

4. **Interpretation of Magnetic Quantum Number**:
- The magnetic quantum number specifies the orientation of the orbital in three-dimensional space. For example, in the case of p orbitals (where l = 1), the magnetic quantum number can be -1, 0, or +1, corresponding to the three different orientations of the p orbitals.

5. **Conclusion**:
- Therefore, the magnetic quantum number specifies the orientation of the orbital in space.

### Final Answer:
The magnetic quantum number specifies the orientation of the orbital in space.

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