Which of the following is true regarding atomic orbitals?

Which of the following is true regarding atomic orbitals?

• A. They always hold one electron
• B. They are fixed locations for finding electrons
• C. They define regions of high probability for finding electrons
• D. They only exist in the ground state

Answer: (C)

Atomic orbitals are mathematical functions that describe the probability distribution of an electron in an atom. They do not represent fixed locations where electrons are found but rather regions where there is a high probability of finding an electron. The shape and size of these orbitals—such as s, p, d, and f—indicate different probabilities. For example, an s orbital is spherical and indicates that there is a significant likelihood of finding an electron in that shape around the nucleus. In contrast, p orbitals are dumbbell-shaped, and their orientation reflects the probability density of locating an electron in those regions. Therefore, the correct answer accurately captures the essence of atomic orbitals as defining regions of high probability for electron presence, rather than fixed locations or any other property that would misrepresent their behavior.

Atomic orbitals are mathematical functions that describe the probability distribution of an electron in an atom. They do not represent fixed locations where electrons are found but rather regions where there is a high probability of finding an electron. The shape and size of these orbitals—such as s, p, d, and f—indicate different probabilities.

For example, an s orbital is spherical and indicates that there is a significant likelihood of finding an electron in that shape around the nucleus. In contrast, p orbitals are dumbbell-shaped, and their orientation reflects the probability density of locating an electron in those regions. Therefore, the correct answer accurately captures the essence of atomic orbitals as defining regions of high probability for electron presence, rather than fixed locations or any other property that would misrepresent their behavior.