What is the maximum number of #p# orbitals that can be present in an energy level?

1 Answer

Three.

Explanation:

The #p# orbitals line up orthogonally to each other in a dumbbell shape. In three dimensions, there are #3# orbitals possible: #p_x#, #p_y#, #p_z#.

Each of the #p# orbitals can hold 2 electrons: one with a #+1/2# spin and one with a #-1/2# spin. There are three #p# orbitals that hold up to six electrons in each energy level.