Question

In a given energy level, the order of penetration effect of different orbitals is
A. f < d < p < s
B. s = p = d = f
C. s < p < d < f
D. p > s > d > f

Answer 1

Hint: The ability which allows an electron to get close to the nucleus is known as penetration. It is known as the proximity of the electron in the orbital to the nucleus. We consider it for each shell and subshell as the relative density of the electrons near the atom nucleus.The electron goes closer to the nucleus the more it starts penetrating.

Complete step by step answer:
Let us understand what is meant by penetration. Penetration and shielding are usually studied together. They are the main principles which help in determining the physical and also the chemical properties of the element.
Now let us see what is meant by penetration and shielding.
The nucleus is made up of positively charged particles and electrons are negatively charged particles. Are pretty close to each other by the attraction of the nucleus. The electrons repel each other but at the same time, they are attracted by the nucleus. This balance between attractive forces and repulsive forces is known as shielding. Whereas the ability which allows an electron to get close to the nucleus is known as penetration.
As penetration depends on the attractive forces so we can conclude that the force that an electron feels is always dependent on the distance from the nearest charge. So here we can see that the amount of charge which is felt by an electron is dependent on the distance at which it is located from the nucleus.
We can conclude by saying that as the electron goes closer to the nucleus the more it starts penetrating. So due to this reason, the core electrons penetrate more and they have the feel of the nucleus more than any other electrons.
Based on these facts we say that s orbital penetrates the most and f orbital the least.

So, the correct answer is Option A.

Note: The amount of charge which is felt by an electron is dependent on the distance at which it is located from the nucleus. The subshell of s is closely positioned or present at the nucleus then comes the p subshell which contains maximum 6 electrons. Then is the d subshell which has the tendency to contain 10 electrons and then is the f subshell which contains 14 electrons in it.