Chemistry / Unit 5 Chem 0831 short lesson, about 20 seconds
The Spin Quantum Number, ms
Captions available
The idea
The spin quantum number, ms, takes one of two values, +1/2 or −1/2, an intrinsic electron property independent of its orbital.
In practice
Two electrons sharing one orbital must carry opposite ms values, one +1/2 and one −1/2, distinguishing them from each other.
Where people slip
Spin is not literal spatial spinning of a tiny ball — it is an intrinsic quantum property with two possible values.
Your place on the trail
Every lesson rests on earlier ones and opens later ones. Tap any to jump.
Builds on
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