Select the correct answer.

Which types of orbitals are found in the principal energy level \( n = 3 \)?

A. \( s, d \)

B. \( s, p, d \)

C. \( s, p \)

D. \( s, p, f \)

E. [tex]\( s, d, f \)[/tex]



Answer :

Sure, let's determine the types of orbitals that are found in the principal energy level \( n = 3 \).

1. Principal Quantum Number (n): The principal quantum number \( n \) determines the energy level and size of the orbital. For \( n = 3 \), we need to identify which types of orbitals are allowed.

2. Azimuthal Quantum Number (l): The azimuthal quantum number \( l \) defines the shape of the orbital and can take on any integer value from 0 to \( n-1 \). For \( n = 3 \), \( l \) can be:
- \( l = 0 \) (s orbital)
- \( l = 1 \) (p orbitals)
- \( l = 2 \) (d orbitals)

So, for \( n = 3 \):
- When \( l = 0 \), it corresponds to s orbitals.
- When \( l = 1 \), it corresponds to p orbitals.
- When \( l = 2 \), it corresponds to d orbitals.

Hence, the types of orbitals found in the \( n = 3 \) energy level are: s, p, and d orbitals.

Therefore, the correct answer is [tex]\( \boxed{2} \)[/tex], which corresponds to option B: s, p, and d.