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💏intro to chemistry review

S-Orbital

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

The s-orbital is one of the fundamental electron orbital types in an atom, characterized by a spherical shape and the lowest energy level. It plays a crucial role in understanding the periodic trends and properties of elements within the context of periodicity.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. The s-orbital has a spherical shape, with an angular momentum quantum number (l) of 0, indicating zero angular momentum.
  2. Electrons in the s-orbital have the lowest energy level (n = 1) and are the first to be filled in an atom's electron configuration.
  3. The s-orbital can hold a maximum of 2 electrons, following the Pauli exclusion principle.
  4. The s-orbital is the only orbital type that has a non-zero probability density at the nucleus, which contributes to the atom's overall stability.
  5. The s-orbital's spherical symmetry and low energy level make it important for understanding the periodic trends in atomic size, ionization energy, and electronegativity.

Review Questions

  • Explain the significance of the s-orbital in the context of periodicity and atomic structure.
    • The s-orbital is a fundamental component of atomic structure, as it represents the lowest energy level and the first orbital to be filled in an atom's electron configuration. Its spherical symmetry and proximity to the nucleus contribute to the overall stability of the atom. The s-orbital's properties and the way it is filled play a crucial role in understanding periodic trends, such as atomic size, ionization energy, and electronegativity, which are essential for predicting and explaining the chemical behavior of elements.
  • Describe the relationship between the s-orbital and the quantum numbers that define it.
    • The s-orbital is characterized by a specific set of quantum numbers that uniquely identify its properties. The principal quantum number (n) determines the energy level of the s-orbital, with the lowest energy level being n = 1. The angular momentum quantum number (l) for the s-orbital is 0, indicating zero angular momentum. The magnetic quantum number (m) can take on values of 0, reflecting the spherical symmetry of the s-orbital. These quantum numbers, in combination, define the s-orbital and its role in the overall electron configuration of an atom.
  • Analyze the significance of the s-orbital's electron capacity and its impact on the periodic table.
    • The s-orbital has a maximum capacity of 2 electrons, as dictated by the Pauli exclusion principle. This means that each energy level (n) can only accommodate 2 electrons in the s-orbital. This limitation in electron capacity plays a crucial role in the periodic table, as the filling of s-orbitals determines the electronic configuration of elements and influences their chemical properties. The periodic trends observed in atomic size, ionization energy, and electronegativity are closely tied to the way s-orbitals are filled, making this orbital type essential for understanding the periodic table and the behavior of elements.