if n=2 how many orbitals are possible?

isn't it supposed to be 4? my teacher says it's 2

Question

if n=2 how many orbitals are possible?

isn't it supposed to be 4? my teacher says it's 2

jfraser · Answer

if n=2, there are 2 types of orbitals, one s-type and three p-type, totalling 4. So you're both right, just a vague kind of question, IMO.

lgbasallote · Answer

maybe the question meant the number of orbitals..s and p?

lgbasallote · Answer

what does "how many orbitals" mean?

jfraser · Answer

if the question is asking "how many", I'd answer 4. If it were asking "how many kinds" I'd answer 2.

lgbasallote · Answer

what i wrote was the exact question

jfraser · Answer

I'd still say 4. I think it's a poorly-worded question if your teacher is saying the answer is 2.

lgbasallote · Answer

well he's the teacher..cant argue lol..all i can do is learn from my mistakes :p

jfraser · Answer

there's no harm in asking him to explain exactly what he means, that way you'll know for next time

lgbasallote · Answer

will do thanks :D