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Question
multiple choice question
what is an orbital?
a fixed/defined energy level that the electron travels on around the nucleus
a region of space where an electron is likely to be found
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To determine the correct definition of an orbital, we recall the quantum mechanical model of the atom. An orbital is not a fixed path (like a planetary orbit) but rather a probability cloud or region in space where an electron is most likely to be found. The first option describes a Bohr - like model's electron path, which is incorrect for an orbital. The second option matches the quantum mechanical definition of an orbital.
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The correct option is: a region of space where an electron is likely to be found