Question

Which of the following orbitals does not exist?

• A. 2p⁶
• B. 3s¹
• C. 4f¹²
• D. 2d³

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

(1) $2p^6$: The 'p' orbitals can hold a maximum of 6 electrons. The '2' indicates the second energy level ($n=2$), which has p orbitals. Therefore, $2p^6$ is a valid orbital configuration. 

(2) $3s^1$: The 's' orbitals can hold a maximum of 2 electrons. The '3' indicates the third energy level ($n=3$), which has s orbitals. Therefore, $3s^1$ is a valid orbital configuration. 

(3) $4f^{12}$: The 'f' orbitals can hold a maximum of 14 electrons. The '4' indicates the fourth energy level ($n=4$), which has f orbitals. Therefore, $4f^{12}$ is a valid orbital configuration. 

(4) $2d^3$: The 'd' orbitals first appear in the third energy level ($n=3$). There are no 'd' orbitals in the second energy level ($n=2$). Therefore, $2d^3$ is not a valid orbital configuration. 

So, the orbital that does not exist is $2d^3$. 

Final Answer: The final answer is ${2d^3}$