Can you explain to me why the quantum number set (2, 1, -2, -½) is not possible for an electron in an atom.

Question

superhelp101 · Answer

@DW101796

anonymous · Answer

Because the set numbers are not real numbers. You need a "pattern" in order to have an electron in an atom.

superhelp101 · Answer

hmm oh i didn't know that. Thank you!!

anonymous · Answer

Youre always welcome.

aaronq · Answer

Not sure what DW is trying to say, but it's not a possible set because $m_l$ needs to be $\pm l>0$

(2, 1, $\color{red}{-2}$, -½)

Here -2 is more than $\pm 1$, so it's no possible.

The physical representation is that $l$=1, then you're in the orbital set p.

p has 3 values, +1, 0, -1, each one is an orbital that can "hold" 2 electrons each.|dw:1403830019505:dw|