JEE Main · 2020 · Shift-IImediumATOM-136

The correct statement about probability density (except at infinite distance from nucleus) is:

Structure of Atom · Class 11 · JEE Main Previous Year Question

Question

The correct statement about probability density (except at infinite distance from nucleus) is:

Options
  1. a

    It can be zero for 1s orbital

  2. b

    It can be negative for 2p orbital

  3. c

    It can be zero for 3p orbital

  4. d

    It can never be zero for 2s orbital

Correct Answerc

It can be zero for 3p orbital

Detailed Solution

🧠 The Nodal Barrier Probability density (ψ2\psi^2) represents the likelihood of location. While an electron exists in a cloud, there are specific "fences" (nodes) where this likelihood hits exactly zero.

🗺️ The Orbital Profile

  • 1s orbital: Has zero radial nodes (101=01-0-1=0). Apart from infinity, the electron can be found anywhere.
  • 2s orbital: Has one radial node (201=12-0-1=1). There is a specific spherical distance where density is exactly zero.
  • 3p orbital: Has one radial node (311=13-1-1=1) AND an angular node (l=1l=1). It absolutely can and does hit zero. (TRUE)
  • 2p orbital: Density can never be negative because it is a squared value (ψ2\psi^2).

The "n-1" Rule Any orbital with n>1n > 1 or l>0l > 0 has regions of zero probability. The only orbital that "fills the space" completely (without internal gaps) is the 1s.

⚠️ Common Traps Density is psi2|psi|^2. It can be zero, but it can never be negative.

Answer: (c)\boxed{\text{Answer: (c)}}

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