Atomic Orbital

Atomic Orbital Definition

Imagine trying to find your keys in your house after misplacing them; you know where they're most likely to be, but you're not absolutely certain. This is similar to how electrons behave around an atom’s nucleus: they tend to be found in specific regions, known as atomic orbitals, but their exact location can't be pinpointed at any given time. Just as you predict your keys might be on the kitchen counter or in the living room based on past experience, electrons are most likely found in certain orbital regions, reflecting the areas of highest probability around the atom's nucleus.

Practice Version

Atomic Orbital Definition

Atomic Orbital: A region around an atoms nucleus where an electron is likely to be found. Atomic orbital. An atomic orbital is a region in an atom where there is a high chance of finding an electron.