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Physics

Azimuthal Quantum Number (ℓ)

Quick fact

The azimuthal quantum number ℓ can be any integer from 0 to n−1, where n is the principal quantum number, and it directly determines the shape of the orbital: ℓ=0 gives a spherical s orbital, ℓ=1 a dumbbell-shaped p orbital, ℓ=2 a cloverleaf d orbital, and ℓ=3 a more complex f orbital.

Why this is interesting

You know electrons orbit the nucleus, but did you know their orbits have distinct shapes—spheres, dumbbells, and cloverleaves? What determines these shapes?