The quantum state of a particle can be specified by giving a complete set of qua

Question

The quantum state of a particle can be specified by giving a complete set of quantum numbers (n,l, ml,ms). How many different quantum states are possible if the principal quantum number is n = 4?

To find the total number of allowed states, first write down the allowed orbital quantum numbers l, and then write down the number of allowed values of ml for each orbital quantum number. Sum these quantities, and then multiply by 2 to account for the two possible orientations of spin.

Express your answer as an integer.

Explanation / Answer

l = 0,1,2,...n-1

m= -l, ...0,....+l (there are 2l + 1 values)

ms= +/-1/2 (2 values)

Thus, if n = 4, l = 0,1,2,3.

For l = 0, m =0.

For l=1, m = -1, 0, +1

For l=2, m =-2, -1, 0, +1, +2

For l = 3, m =-3, -2, -1, 0, +1, +2, +3

For each of them, ms = +1/2, -1/2

Thus, there is a total of 16 x 2 = 32 states.

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