Subshell

Definition

A subshell is a division of electron shells separated by electron orbitals. It is characterized by the azimuthal quantum number, also known as the angular momentum quantum number (l).

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Subshells are designated by the letters s, p, d, and f.
2. The maximum number of electrons in an s subshell is 2, in a p subshell is 6, in a d subshell is 10, and in an f subshell is 14.
3. The value of the azimuthal quantum number (l) determines the shape of the orbital within a subshell.
4. Each principal energy level has n types of subshells where n is the principal quantum number.
5. In multi-electron atoms, energy levels within a shell split into different energies based on their subshells due to electron-electron interactions.

Review Questions

• What are the designations for different types of subshells?
• How many electrons can each type of subshell hold?
• What determines the shape of an orbital within a specific subshell?

Related terms

Principal Quantum Number:

The principal quantum number (n) indicates the main energy level occupied by an electron.

Azimuthal Quantum Number: The azimuthal quantum number (l) defines the shape of an orbital and corresponds to the subshell type.

Orbital:

An orbital is a region within a subshell where there is a high probability of finding an electron.