Remember the azimuthal quantum number? s electrons have an azimuthal quantum number of 0, p electrons = 1, d electrons = 2 and f electrons = 3.
The azimuthal quantum number can run from 0 to N-1; therefore, for an f electron (azimuthal quantum number 3), N must be at least 4. You won't find elements in period 4 with f electrons but those orbitals are available at N = 4. Where do they fill? The Lanthanide series is the 4f series. The Actinide series is the 5f series.
Does anybody know the principle quantum number of an atom that has s, p, d, f orbitals?
I'm pretty sure the number is inbetween 2-4, but I am unsure of how to figure out the principle quantum number just using that information.
Thanks in advance!
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