Physics
Azimuthal Quantum Number l
Quick fact
The azimuthal quantum number l can range from 0 to n−1 for a given principal quantum number n, and each value corresponds to a specific subshell shape (s, p, d, f) that holds a maximum number of electrons.
Why this is interesting
You know electrons orbit the nucleus in shells, but did you know each shell is divided into regions with distinct shapes—like spheres, dumbbells, and clovers? What determines these shapes?