Question

which characteristic is given by the principal quantum number?
○ orbital size
○ orbital mass
○ orbital shape
○ orbital orientation

Explanation:

The principal quantum number (\(n\)) in quantum mechanics is related to the energy level and the size of the orbital. The azimuthal quantum number (\(l\)) determines the orbital shape, the magnetic quantum number (\(m_l\)) determines the orbital orientation, and quantum numbers don't relate to orbital mass. So the principal quantum number gives the orbital size.

Answer:

A. orbital size