How would you describe an S-orbital?

Study for the AS Level Chemistry Exam. Test your knowledge with flashcards and multiple choice questions. Each question comes with hints and explanations. Prepare confidently for your exam!

The correct description of an S-orbital is that it is the simplest type of orbital, shaped like a sphere. S-orbitals are characterized by their spherical symmetry around the nucleus, meaning that the probability of finding an electron is evenly distributed in all directions. This spherical shape allows each S-orbital to represent a region of space around the nucleus where there is a high likelihood of finding an electron.

In terms of electron capacity, each S-orbital can hold a maximum of two electrons, with opposite spins according to the Pauli exclusion principle. The concept of being the simplest type of orbital reflects the fact that S-orbitals do not have the complex shapes associated with other types of orbitals, such as P or D orbitals, which have more intricate forms and are involved in more complex bonding scenarios.

The other descriptions do not accurately capture the characteristics of S-orbitals. For instance, their complex shape and capacity for holding many electrons do not apply, as S-orbitals are indeed simple and limited to two electrons. Additionally, S-orbitals are fundamentally connected to electron energy levels, and they do not consist of two distinct regions; instead, they form a uniform spherical shape around the nucleus.

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