Solution
Core Logic
Evaluate constraints set by the given quantum numbers to find available electron slots. Each unique orbital (n, l, ml) can hold exactly 2 electrons of opposite spin.
Step 1: Constraint A
For (A) n = 5, ml = -1: The possible azimuthal quantum numbers l range from 0 to n-1 = 4. However, ml goes from -l to +l. For ml = -1 to exist, l must be at least 1. Possible l values: l=1, l=2, l=3, l=4. Each of these subshells (5p, 5d, 5f, 5g) contains exactly one orbital where ml = -1. Total orbitals = 4. Total electrons = 4 orbitals × 2 e^- /orbital = 8 electrons.
Step 2: Constraint B
For (B) n = 3, l = 2, ml = -1, mₛ = +(1)/(2): This completely specifies all four quantum numbers for a single state. Pauli's Exclusion Principle states no two electrons can have the same four quantum numbers. Therefore, exactly 1 electron is possible.
Pattern Recognition
If n and ml ≠ 0 are given, count how many l values are ≥ |ml|. For n=5 and ml=-1, l in 1,2,3,4. That's 4 orbitals, 8 electrons.
Chapter Mix
Class 11 Chemistry: Structure of Atom