Chemistry · Concept of atomic orbitals as one-electron wave functions, variation of Psi and Psi^2 with r for 1s and 2s orbitals

For which of the following orbital wave function does not change from positive t

For which of the following orbital wave function does not change from positive to negative at any distance from nucleus?

  • A. \( 1 s \)
  • B. \( 2 p \)
  • C. \( 2 s \)
  • D. \( 3 d \)

Step-by-step solution

The 1s orbital has no radial or angular nodes, so its wave function is positive at all distances from the nucleus. In contrast, 2s has a radial node where the sign changes, 2p has an angular node (nodal plane) causing sign change, and 3d has angular nodes leading to sign changes. Thus, only the 1s orbital does not change sign.
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