Difference Between Orbit and Orbitals - Overview, Definition, FAQs

Orbit

The orbit, meaning of a molecule in chemistry, is a definite path formed by regular rotations of electrons. Furthermore, electrons are pulled toward the nucleus by the pull of electrons. Furthermore, the first shell of an atom is only comprised of two electrons according to Bohr's model. The magnetic field of an atom created by an electron is known as its orbit in chemistry. Also, an electron's orbit is simply a representation of an electron's location on a plane. In addition, it is the path whose establishment takes place because electrons revolve around the nucleus in a circular motion. An orbit can't explain the shape of molecules. Because molecules have no directional properties, this is the case. Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle is certainly violated by electrons.

Orbital

There is a large probability that an electron could be located in an uncertain area called an orbital. In addition, the space around the nucleus is three-dimensional, reflecting the orbital. Furthermore, it is also possible for the orbital to have different kinds of shapes. An orbital, on the other hand, is simply the probable region where one can expect to find the maximum density of electron presence within an atom. A body's orbit, meaning instead, contains only a certain amount of mass, while an electron's orbit contains both an atom and an electron. This is why Orbital and Orbit are two different things. Here is a comparison of Orbits and Orbitals so you can see how the two differ.

Number of Orbitals in a Subshell

• s-subshell → 1 orbital
• p -subshell $\rightarrow 3$ orbitals
• d-subshell → 5 orbitals
• f-subshell → 7 orbitals

Difference Between Orbit And Orbital

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Some Solved Examples

Question 1: Which of the following is true about an "orbit" in the Bohr model of the atom?

a) It is a three-dimensional region where electrons are likely to be found.
b) It is a fixed, circular path around the nucleus where electrons move. (correct)
c) It describes the probability distribution of an electron.
d) It represents a quantum mechanical model of electron behavior.

Solution:

In Bohr's model, electrons move in fixed, circular orbits around the nucleus at specific energy levels. These orbits are distinct paths, unlike the probability regions described in quantum mechanics.

Hence, the correct answer is option (b)

Question 2: Which of the following best describes an "orbital"?

a) A specific path taken by an electron in an atom.
b) A fixed, circular trajectory followed by electrons.
c) A region in space around the nucleus where the probability of finding an electron is highest. (correct)
d) A definite location of an electron in an atom.

Solution:

An orbital in quantum mechanics refers to a region around the nucleus where there is a high probability of finding an electron. Orbitals do not represent a fixed path, but a probabilistic area.

Hence, the correct answer is option (c)

Question 3: What distinguishes an orbital from an orbit?

a) An orbital is a fixed path; an orbit is a probabilistic region.
b) An orbital is described by quantum mechanics, whereas an orbit is based on classical physics.(correct)
c) An orbital is always circular, while an orbit is always elliptical.
d) There is no difference; both terms are used interchangeably.

Solution:

"Orbit" refers to the classical concept of a fixed, circular path for an electron, as per Bohr's model. "Orbital," however, is a quantum mechanical concept where electrons are found within regions of high probability, with complex shapes like s, p, d, and f.

Hence, the correct answer is option (b)

Question 4: The total number of atomic orbitals in the fourth energy level of an atom is

1) 4

2) 8

3) (correct) 16

4) 32

Solution:

The fourth energy level has four subshells s,p,d,f
$s \rightarrow 1$ orbital
$p \rightarrow 3$ orbitals
d → 5 orbitals
$\mathrm{f} \rightarrow 7$ orbital

16 orbitals

Hence, the answer is option (3).

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