Question 2

The plots of radial distribution functions for various orbitals of hydrogen atom against 'r' are given below. The correct plot for 3s orbital is:

Name: The plots of radial distribution functions for various orbitals of hydrogen atom against 'r' are given below. The correct plot for 3s orbital is:
Uploaded: 2026-05-19T12:26:04.342142+05:30
Duration: 1 min 3 s
Description: The plots of radial distribution functions for various orbitals of hydrogen atom against 'r' are given below. The correct plot for 3s orbital is:

Solution

A radial node is strictly defined as a point at a finite distance from the nucleus where the radial probability density drops to exactly zero. Mathematically, it is a place where the electron's actual wavefunction changes sign (crossing from positive to negative, or vice versa). There are $$n-l-1$$ radial nodes. The total nodes for $$3s=$$ $$3 - 0 -1=2$$. Therefore the right option is C.