MCAT General Chemistry Question 2: Answer and Explanation

Home > MCAT Test > MCAT general chemistry practice tests

Test Information

Question: 2

2. Which of the following quantum number sets is possible?

  • A. n = 2; l = 2; ml = 1;
  • B. n = 2; l = 1; ml = -1;
  • C. n = 2; l = 0; ml = -1;
  • D. n = 2; l = 0; ml = 1;

Correct Answer: B

Explanation:

The azimuthal quantum number l cannot be higher than n - 1, ruling out choice (A). The ml number, which describes the chemical's magnetic properties, can only be an integer value between -l and l. It cannot be equal to 1 if l = 0; this would imply that an s orbital has three subshells (-1, 0, and 1) when we know it can only have one. This rules out choices (C) and (D).

Previous       Next