Question

For the quantum number `l = 1`, how many possible values are there for the quantum number `m_l`?

Answer 1

3

Explanation:

The values of `m_l` are dependent on the value for `l`. `l` denotes the type of orbital it is, i.e. s, p, d. Meanwhile, `m_l` denotes the orientation for that orbital.

`l` can take any positive integer greater than or equal to zero, `l>=0`.

`m_l` can take any integer from `-l` to `+l`, `-l<=m_l<=l,m_linZZ`

Since `l=1`, `m_l` can be `-1`, `0`, or `1`. This means there are three possible values for `m_l` given `l=1`.