P orbitals

Definition

P orbitals are a type of atomic orbital with a dumbbell shape that can hold up to six electrons, and they exist in three orientations (px, py, pz). They are higher in energy than s orbitals and start appearing in the second energy level (n=2).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Each p orbital can hold a maximum of two electrons.
2. There are three p orbitals per energy level starting from n=2: px, py, and pz.
3. P orbitals have a dumbbell shape with lobes oriented along the x, y, and z axes.
4. The angular momentum quantum number (l) for p orbitals is 1.
5. P orbitals play a significant role in the chemical bonding and molecular geometry of elements.

Review Questions

• How many electrons can occupy one p orbital?
• At which principal energy level do p orbitals first appear?
• What is the shape of a p orbital?

Related terms

s Orbital: A spherical atomic orbital that can hold up to two electrons with an angular momentum quantum number (l) of 0.

d Orbital: An atomic orbital with more complex shapes that can hold up to ten electrons, starting from n=3 with an angular momentum quantum number (l) of 2.

\text{Quantum Number}: $\text{Numbers used to describe the properties of atomic orbitals and their electrons.}$