What does the Pauli exclusion principle state?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for the definition of the Pauli exclusion principle, which is a fundamental concept in quantum mechanics regarding the behavior of electrons in atoms.
Answer
No two electrons in an atom can have identical quantum numbers.
The Pauli exclusion principle states that no two electrons in the same atom can have identical values for all four of their quantum numbers. This means two electrons in the same orbital must have opposite spins.
Answer for screen readers
The Pauli exclusion principle states that no two electrons in the same atom can have identical values for all four of their quantum numbers. This means two electrons in the same orbital must have opposite spins.
More Information
The principle was formulated by Wolfgang Pauli in 1925 and plays a critical role in the structure of atoms and molecules, explaining the electron shell configuration structure.
Tips
A common mistake is thinking that the principle applies to electrons in different atoms or particles with integer spins. It only applies to fermions like electrons in the same atom.
Sources
- Pauli exclusion principle - Chemistry LibreTexts - chem.libretexts.org
- Pauli exclusion principle - Wikipedia - en.wikipedia.org
- Pauli Exclusion Principle - Definition, Explanation, Examples - BYJU'S - byjus.com
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