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Question #44266
The Question
An electron in a hydrogenic ion is excited to a stationary state characterized by the wavefunction . Analysis of the probability density reveals exactly one radial (spherical) node and zero electron density on the mutually perpendicular planes defined by the equations and . Assuming the standard quantum mechanical convention mapping real -orbitals to magnetic quantum numbers ( for , for , and for ), which of the following correctly identifies the principal, azimuthal, and magnetic quantum numbers for this state, along with the geometric axis where its planar nodes intersect?
Options
- A.
; Intersection axis is the -axis
- B.
; Intersection axis is the -axis
- C.
; Intersection axis is the -axis
- D.
; Intersection axis is the -axis
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Mechanism_Trap
Don't get tricked by the process! Learn the mechanical traps used in competitive exam questions.
Concepts Behind This Question
Pauli Exclusion Principle|Angular Nodes and Planar Nodes
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
This question tests the deep geometric understanding of quantum numbers and nodal planes.
Students often memorize that -orbitals have 2 planar nodes but fail to map the specific plane equations () to the correct real orbital ().
A common trap is assuming that because the nodes are defined by and , the orbital must be (leading to Option B), or miscalculating the radial nodes by forgetting the formula (leading to Option D).
Furthermore, it tests the spatial visualization of intersecting planes to identify the correct axis of zero electron density.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Chemistry |
| Chapter | Structure of Atom - Class 11 Part 1 |
| Concept | Pauli Exclusion Principle |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 7 |
| Target Solve Time | 160 sec |
| Access | Free |