When the value of azimuthal quantum number is 3, the maximum and minimum values of spin multiplicity — Atomic Structure Chemistry Question

💡 Solution & Explanation

Azimuthal quantum number $l=3$ means an f-subshell, which has $2l+1 = 7$ orbitals and can hold up to 14 electrons. Spin multiplicity = $2\|S\| + 1$, where $S$ is total spin. Maximum $S$ is when 7 electrons are unpaired (parallel spins): $S = 7 \times (1/2) = 7/2 \implies$ max multiplicity = $2(7/2) + 1 = 8$. Minimum $S$ is when all electrons are paired: $S = 0 \implies$ min multiplicity = $2(0) + 1 = 1$. Therefore, correct answer is B.