Subshell

Definition

A subshell is a division of electron shells separated by electron orbitals within an atom. Subshells are designated by the letters s, p, d, and f, and they describe the shape and energy of the orbitals.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Each subshell corresponds to a specific set of quantum numbers.
2. Subshells determine the distribution of electrons in an atom's electron cloud.
3. The Pauli Exclusion Principle states that no two electrons in an atom can have the same set of quantum numbers, affecting how electrons fill subshells.
4. The order in which subshells are filled is determined by their increasing energy levels: 1s, 2s, 2p, 3s, 3p, etc.
5. The maximum number of electrons in a subshell can be calculated using $2(2l+1)$ where $l$ is the azimuthal quantum number.

Review Questions

• What letters are used to designate different subshells?
• How does the Pauli Exclusion Principle affect electron configuration in subshells?
• What formula determines the maximum number of electrons that can occupy a given subshell?

Related terms

Quantum Number: A value used to describe the energy levels available to atoms and molecules; includes principal (n), azimuthal (l), magnetic (m_l), and spin (m_s) quantum numbers.

Electron Orbital: A region around an atomic nucleus where an electron is likely to be found; each type of orbital has a specific shape and orientation.

Pauli Exclusion Principle: \text{A principle stating that no two fermions can have identical quantum numbers within the same system. For electrons in an atom, this means no two electrons can occupy the same state simultaneously.}