Orbitals with Same Energy in Multielectron Atom | JEE Mains PYQ | Structure of Atom
Q. In a multielectron atom, which of the following orbitals described by three quantum numbers will have same energy in absence of electric and magnetic fields?

A. n = 1, l = 0, ml = 0

B. n = 2, l = 0, ml = 0

C. n = 2, l = 1, ml = 1

D. n = 3, l = 2, ml = 1

E. n = 3, l = 2, ml = 0

Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

A. B and C Only
B. C and D Only
C. A and B Only
D. D and E Only
Explanation
Step 1: Energy in multielectron atoms

In multielectron atoms, orbital energy depends on n and l only, not on ml (in absence of external fields).

Step 2: Check given orbitals

A → 1s orbital
B → 2s orbital
C → 2p orbital
D → 3d orbital (ml = 1)
E → 3d orbital (ml = 0)

Step 3: Degeneracy condition

Orbitals having same n and l but different ml have same energy.

Step 4: Final check

D and E both represent 3d orbitals (n = 3, l = 2) with different ml values.

Correct Answer = D and E Only

Updated for JEE Main 2026: This PYQ is important for JEE Mains, JEE Advanced and other competitive exams. Practice more questions from this chapter.

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