Question: The radial probability function for a 2s orbital is shown here. Classify the following statements as either true or false: (a) There are two maxima

The radial probability function for a 2s orbital is shown here.

Probability 2s 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9

Classify the following statements as either true or false: 

(a) There are two maxima in this function because one electron spends most of its time at an approximate distance of 0.5 Å from the nucleus and the other electron spends most of its time at an approximate distance of 3 Å from the nucleus. 

(b) The radial probability function shown here and the probability density  [Ψ(r)]2 both go to zero at the same distance from the nucleus, approximately 1 Å. 

(c) For an s orbital, the number of radial nodes is equal to the principal quantum number, n.

Probability 2s 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 Distance from the nucleus, r ()

Step by Step Solution

3.27 Rating (162 Votes )

There are 3 Steps involved in it

1 Expert Approved Answer
Step: 1 Unlock

a There are two maxima in this function because one electron spends most of its time at an approx... View full answer

blur-text-image
Question Has Been Solved by an Expert!

Get step-by-step solutions from verified subject matter experts

Step: 2 Unlock
Step: 3 Unlock

Students Have Also Explored These Related Chemistry The Central Science Questions!