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This page explains what atomic orbitals are in a way that makes
them understandable for introductory courses such as UK A level
and its equivalents. It explores s and p orbitals in some detail,
including their shapes and energies. d orbitals are described only in
terms of their energy, and f orbitals only get a passing mention.
Universe!
d and f orbitals
In addition to s and p orbitals, there are two other sets of orbitals
which become available for electrons to inhabit at higher energy
levels. At the third level, there is a set of five d orbitals (with
complicated shapes and names) as well as the 3s and 3p orbitals
(3px, 3py, 3pz). At the third level there are a total of nine orbitals
altogether.
At the fourth level, as well the 4s and 4p and 4d orbitals there are
an additional seven f orbitals - 16 orbitals in all. s, p, d and f orbitals
are then available at all higher energy levels as well.
For the moment, you need to be aware that there are sets of five d
orbitals at levels from the third level upwards, but you probably
won't be expected to draw them or name them. Apart from a
passing reference, you won't come across f orbitals at all.
Note: Some UK-based syllabuses will eventually want you to
be able to draw, or at least recognise, the shapes of d orbitals.
I am not including them now because I don't want to add
confusion to what is already a difficult introductory topic. Check
your syllabus and past papers to find out what you need to
know. If you are a studying a UK-based syllabus and haven't
got these, follow this link to find out how to get hold of them.
to draw "electrons-in-boxes".
"Electrons-in-boxes"
Orbitals can be represented as boxes with the electrons in them
shown as arrows. Often an up-arrow and a down-arrow are used to
show that the electrons are in some way different.
Taking chemistry further: The need to have all electrons in
an atom different comes out of quantum theory. If they live in
different orbitals, that's fine - but if they are both in the same
orbital there has to be some subtle distinction between them.
Quantum theory allocates them a property known as "spin" which is what the arrows are intended to suggest.