What is quantum number?

Azimuthal quantum number

Quantum numbers are values that describe the properties of an electron in an atom. There are four types of quantum numbers:

1. Principal quantum number (n): This is the main quantum number and represents the energy level of an electron. It can take on positive integer values starting from 1, and the higher the value of n, the higher the energy of the electron.
2. Azimuthal quantum number (l): This quantum number describes the shape of the electron’s orbital. It can take on integer values ranging from 0 to (n-1). The value of l determines the number of possible orientations for the electron cloud in space.
3. Magnetic quantum number (m): This quantum number describes the orientation of an electron orbital in space. It can take on values ranging from -l to +l.
4. Spin quantum number (s): This quantum number represents the intrinsic angular momentum of an electron, also known as its spin. It can take on two possible values: +1/2 or -1/2.

Together, the four quantum numbers describe the complete state of an electron in an atom and allow us to determine its location and behavior within the atom.