Orbitals even take on more complex shapes as the value of the angular quantum number becomes larger. Orbitals contain 1 or 2 electrons, never more. This diagram shows the three possible orientations of a p orbital - p x , p y , p z . This fourth quantum number describes the spin of the electron. Electrons in the same orbital must have opposite spins.
Possible spins are clockwise or counterclockwise.
This assignment must be turned in by the beginning of class tomorrow to receive credit. The atomic theory tells us that the fifth electron energy level has five sublevels. The shape of today's periodic table identifies electron energy levels, sublevels, and orbitals. Except for helium, you can read the electron configuration directly from the table. If you mentally move helium beside hydrogen, above beryllium, it will be in place to read its electron configuration.