Atomic Physics
The spin quantum number is a fundamental property of particles that describes the intrinsic angular momentum, or 'spin', of a particle such as an electron. It can take on values of +1/2 or -1/2, which indicate the two possible orientations of the spin. This concept is crucial for understanding how particles behave in magnetic fields and plays a significant role in the overall quantum mechanical description of systems, especially when discussing electron configurations and the arrangement of electrons in atoms.
congrats on reading the definition of spin quantum number. now let's actually learn it.