To solve the problem, we need to find the total number of atomic orbitals in the third shell of an atom.
1. Understanding Atomic Shells:
The number of orbitals in a shell can be calculated using the formula: $n^2$, where $n$ is the principal quantum number of the shell.
For the third shell, $n = 3$.
2. Calculating the Number of Orbitals:
Using the formula $n^2$:
$ 3^2 = 9 $
Final Answer:
The total number of atomic orbitals in the third shell is $ {9} $.