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How much do we need to know about Quantum Numbers?

Started by AggieDDS
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AggieDDS

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I hate this stuff 🙄

But seriously, how much should we know? (d orbitals structures? 😕)

And what about electron configs? (transition metals?)
 
I think we need to know possible n, ml, and ms for a given element.

I also think we need to know how the transition metals fill up their orbitals, in particular elements like Cu.
 
One of the common questions on the DAT regarding quantum #s is that they give you the electron configuration for a particular compound and they ask you for the proper set of quantum #s. To answer such questions you need to have a fair understanding of quantum numbers.
 
I hate this stuff 🙄

But seriously, how much should we know? (d orbitals structures? 😕)

And what about electron configs? (transition metals?)

You need n, l, ml, and ms. You also need to know particular odd trends/exceptions, and what valence you expect to see in common oxidation states.