What is the magnetic quantum number?

Magnetic quantum number. ... The magnetic quantum number distinguishes the orbitals available within a subshell, and is used to calculate the azimuthal component of the orientation of orbital in space. Electrons in a particular subshell (such as s, p, d, or f) are defined by values of ? (0, 1, 2, or 3). read more

In atomic physics, the magnetic quantum number, designated by the letter m l, [dubious – discuss] is the third in a set of four quantum numbers (the principal quantum number, the azimuthal quantum number, the magnetic quantum number, and the spin quantum number) which describe the unique quantum state of an electron. read more

Since the magnetic quantum number is the third quantum number, it's important to know its relationship with the first two quantum numbers before we proceed further. Let's take a second to briefly review the first two quantum numbers. read more

The magnetic quantum number \(m_l\) determines the number of orbitals and their orientation within a subshell. Consequently, its value depends on the orbital angular momentum quantum number \(l\). Given a certain \(l\), \(m_l\) is an interval ranging from \(–l\) to \(+l\), so it can be zero, a negative integer, or a positive integer. read more