Question

The radial probability distribution curves of 3P orbitals is similar to that of -----S orbital​

Answer 1

we have to fill in the blank,

The radial probability distribution curves of 3p orbitals is similar to that of S orbital.

solution : before start to solve the problem, let's take a brief discussion about radial probability distribution.

radial probability distribution curves gives an idea about the electron density at a radial distance from the nucleus.

The value of radial density function (i.e.,4πr²Ψ²) becomes zero at a nodal point or radial node.

The number of radial nodes for an orbital = n - l - 1 , where n is principal quantum number, l is azimuthal quantum number.

for 3p,

n = 3, l = 1

no of radial nodes = 3 - 1 - 1 = 1

let principal quantum number of s orbital is n.

and azimuthal quantum number, l = 0

so, no of radial nodes = n - 0 - 1 = n - 1

The radial probability distribution curves of 3P orbitals is similar to that of nS orbital only if,

no of radial nodes will be equal.

i.e., 1 = n - 1

⇒n = 2

Therefore The radial probability distribution curves of 3P orbitals is similar to that of 2s orbital