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How many subshells are there?

Published in Atomic Structure 1 min read

There are four main types of subshells, denoted as s, p, d, and f.

These subshells are part of the electron shell structure of an atom. Each shell (n = 1, 2, 3, etc.) can contain one or more subshells. The number and type of subshells within a shell are determined by the principal quantum number (n) of that shell.

  • s subshell: Can hold up to 2 electrons.
  • p subshell: Can hold up to 6 electrons.
  • d subshell: Can hold up to 10 electrons.
  • f subshell: Can hold up to 14 electrons.

The existence of these subshells explains the chemical behavior and bonding properties of elements. Understanding the arrangement of electrons within these subshells is crucial in chemistry and physics.

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