Comment on the correctness of the following statement: The probability of finding two electrons with the same four quantum numbers in an atom is zero.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The statement is correct according to Pauli's Exclusion Principle. It states no two electrons in an atom can have identical sets of quantum numbers, so the probability is zero.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Quantum Numbers

Four quantum numbers - the principal quantum number (n), the azimuthal quantum number (l), the magnetic quantum number (m), and the spin quantum number (s) - are assigned to every electron in an atom to describe its state. These quantum numbers define the size, shape, and orientation in space of an electron's orbital, and the direction of spin of the electron respectively.
02

Understanding Pauli’s Exclusion Principle

The Pauli Exclusion Principle states that no two electrons in an atom can have the same four quantum numbers. This means every electron in an atom is in a unique state and solidifies their indistinguishability.
03

Assessing the Statement

Given the understanding of Pauli’s Exclusion Principle, the statement in the question is correct. The probability of finding two electrons with the same four quantum numbers in an atom is indeed zero.

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