Azimuthal Quantum Number Definition

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By
Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.
Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.
Chemistry Expert
  • Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences, University of Tennessee at Knoxville
  • B.A., Physics and Mathematics, Hastings College
Dr. Helmenstine holds a Ph.D. in biomedical sciences and is a science writer, educator, and consultant. She has taught science courses at the high school, college, and graduate levels.
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Updated on January 14, 2020

The azimuthal quantum number, ℓ, is the quantum number associated with the angular momentum of an atomic electron. It is also known as the angular momentum quantum number or the second quantum number. The angular momentum quantum number determines the shape of the electron's orbital. Arnold Sommerfeld proposed the azimuthal quantum number, based on the Bohr model of the atom.

Azumuthal Quantum Numbers

The angular momentum quantum number determines the shape of an electron orbital. p orbitals are the result of an angular momentum quantum number equal to 1.
Read More
Angular Momentum Quantum Number Definition
By Anne Marie Helmenstine, Ph.D.

The azimuthal quantum numbers are:

  • Intrinsic angular momentum quantum number (spin quantum number)
  • Magnetic quantum number
  • Orbital angular momentum quantum numbers
  • Total angular momentum quantum numbers

Example

A p orbital is associated with an azimuthal quantum number equal to 1.

Sources

  • Eisberg, Robert (1974). Quantum Physics of Atoms, Molecules, Solids, Nuclei and Particles. New York: John Wiley & Sons Inc. pp. 114–117. ISBN 978-0-471-23464-7.
  • Lindsay, R.B. (1927). "Note on "pendulum" orbits in atomic models." Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. 13: 413–419. doi:10.1073/pnas.13.6.413
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Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Azimuthal Quantum Number Definition." ThoughtCo, Aug. 29, 2020, thoughtco.com/definition-of-azimuthal-quantum-number-604809. Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. (2020, August 29). Azimuthal Quantum Number Definition. Retrieved from https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-azimuthal-quantum-number-604809 Helmenstine, Anne Marie, Ph.D. "Azimuthal Quantum Number Definition." ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/definition-of-azimuthal-quantum-number-604809 (accessed April 24, 2024).