PREVIOUS HSE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS OF THE CHAPTER “STRUCTURE OF ATOM”

1. Quantum numbers give the address of an electron. Explain all the four quantum numbers. (4)
[March 2008]

Ans: Quantum Numbers are certain numbers used to explain the size, shape and orientation of orbitals.
Or, Quantum numbers are the address of an electron. There are four quantum numbers - Principal
Quantum number (n), Azimuthal Quantum number (Ɩ), Magnetic Quantum number (m) and Spin Quantum
number (s)
1. Principal Quantum Number (n): It gives the size the orbit, the energy of electron in an orbit, the shell in
which the electron is found and the average distance between the electron and the nucleus.
The possible values are 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 etc.
2. Azimuthal Quantum Number (Ɩ): It gives the shape of the orbital, the sub shell in which the electron is
located and the orbital angular momentum of the electron.
The possible values of Ɩ are : Ɩ = 0, 1, 2, .......... (n-1).
3. Magnetic Quantum Number (m or mƖ): It gives the orientation of orbitals in space. For a given ‘Ɩ’ value,
there are 2Ɩ+1 possible values for m and these values are – Ɩ to 0 to + Ɩ
4. Spin Quantum Number (s or ms): It is the only experimental Quantum number and it gives the spin
orientation of electrons. The values for s may be +½ or -½. +½ represents clock-wise spin and-½ represents
anticlock-wise spin.
2. Dual nature of matter was proposed by Louis-de-Broglie.
a) Calculate the de Broglie wave length associated with an electron with velocity 1.6 x 10 6 ms-1 (3)
b) State Pauli’s exclusion principle and Hund’s rule of maximum multiplicity. (2) [March 2009]
h
Ans: a) From the de Broglie’s equation, λ = mv
6.626 x 10−34
= = 0.455 x 10-9m = 0.455 nm
9.1 x 10−31 x 1.6 x 106
b) Pauli’s Exclusion Principle states that no two electrons in an atom can have the same set of four
quantum numbers. Or, an orbital can accommodate a maximum of only two electrons with opposite spin.
Hund’s rule states that electron pairing takes place in degenerate orbitals only after partially filling all
such orbitals.
3. Niels Bohr was the first to explain quantitatively the general features of hydrogen atom structure and its
spectrum.
a) Give the main postulates of Bohr’s model of atom. (2)
b) Find the maximum number of emission lines, when the excited electron of hydrogen atom in n =6,
drops to the ground state (n = 1). (1½)
c) Calculate the wave number of radiation due to transition of an electron from 4 th orbit to 2nd orbit
(RH = 109677 cm-1) (1½) [March 2010]
Ans: a) The important postulates of Bohr model of hydrogen atom are:
(i) The electron in the hydrogen atom can move around the nucleus in circular paths of fixed radius and
energy. These paths are called orbits or stationary states or allowed energy states.
(ii) The energy of an electron in an orbit does not change with time. However, when an electron absorbs
energy, it will move away from the nucleus.
(iii) The radius of nth orbit of hydrogen atom can be given by the equation: rn = a0 n2 where a0 = 52.9 pm.

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 (iv) The energy of electron in the nth orbit of hydrogen atom is given by the expression: En = -RH (1/n2),
where n = 1,2,3…… and RH is a constant called Rydberg constant. Its value is 2.18x10-18 J.
(v) The frequency of radiation absorbed or emitted when transition occurs between two stationary states
that differ in energy by ΔE, is given by:
𝛥𝐸 𝐸2 − 𝐸1
ν= =
ℎ ℎ
𝑛ℎ
(vi) The angular momentum of an electron is an integral multiple of h/2π. i.e. mevr =
2𝜋
𝑛(𝑛−1) 6(6−1) 30
b) The maximum no. of emission lines = = = = 15.
2 2 2
c) For the second line in Balmer series, n1 = 2 and n2 = 4
1 1 1 1 1 3
Wave number, ῡ = 𝜆 = 109677 (𝑛2 − ) = 109677 (22 − ) = 109677 x 16 = 20564.4 cm-1
1 𝑛22 42
4. During Rutherford’s α-ray scattering experiment, it was observed that most of the α-particles passed
through the Gold-foil without any deflection, a small fraction deflected by small angles and very few
bounced back.
a) What are the main conclusions made by Rutherford? (1½)
b) Give the atom model proposed by him. (1½)
c) What are the main drawbacks of this model and how Niels Bohr overcame these defects in his model?
(2) [September 2010]

Ans: a) Conclusions:
(i) Most space in the atom is empty.
(ii) The positive charge of the atom is concentrated in a very small volume at the centre called
nucleus.
(iii) The volume occupied by the nucleus is negligibly small as compared to the total volume of the
atom.
b) The important postulates of Rutherford’s nuclear model of an atom are:
➢ All the positive charge and most of the mass of the atom are concentrated in an extremely
small region called nucleus.
➢ Electrons are revolving round the nucleus with a very high speed in circular paths called
orbits.
➢ Electrons and the nucleus are held together by electrostatic forces of attraction. [Any 2]
c) The important drawbacks of this model are:
(i) Rutherford’s model cannot explain the stability of the atom.
(ii) He cannot explain the electronic structure of atom.
Bohr overcame these defects by assigning fixed circular paths for electrons.

5. Based on his α-ray scattering experiment, Rutherford proposed the nuclear model of an atom.
a) Give the main postulates of Rutherford’s atom model. (2)
b) Write the important demerits of Rutherford model. (1)
4 -1
c) The threshold frequency, ν0 for a metal is 6.2 x 10 s . Calculate the K.E of an ejected electron when
the radiation of frequency, ν = 8.7 x 104s-1 strikes the metal. (2) [March 2011]
Ans: a) and b) Refer the Answer of Question No. 4 (b) and (c)
c) K.E of emitted electron = hν - hν0 = h(ν - ν0) = 6.626 x 10-34 (8.7 x 104 – 6.2 x 104)= 16.565 x 10-30 J
6. The electrons in an atom are designated by a set of quantum numbers labeled as n, l, m and s.

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 a) Give the values of n, l, m and s for the valence electron of sodium atom (Atomic number = 11) (2)
b) Which of the following set of quantum numbers are not allowed?
i) n = 3, l = 3, m = -3, s = +½
ii) n = 2, l = 1, m = 0, s = -½
iii) n = 1, l = 0, m = 0, s = +½
iv) n = 0, l = 0, m = 0, s = +½ (2)
c) State Pauli’s exclusion principle. (1) [October 2011]
2
Ans: a) The electronic configuration of sodium is 11Na – 1s 2s 2p 3s . 2 6 1

Here the last electron is at 3s subshell.

The values of different quantum numbers for 3s subshell are n = 3, l = 0, m = 0 and s = + ½ or – ½.
b) i) n = 3, l = 3, m = -3, s = +½ and iv) n = 0, l = 0, m = 0, s = +½
c) Refer the answer of Qn. No. 2 (b)
7. The photon has a momentum as well as a wavelength.
a) Which property of matter is revealed in the above statement? (1)
b) A photon has a mass of 8.6 x10 kg. Calculate its wavelength. (Planck’s constant = 6.626 x 10-34 Js
-30

(2) [March 2012]

Ans: a) Dual behaviour of matter
b) For photon, velocity (v) = 3 x 108 m s-1
ℎ
From the de Broglie’s equation, λ = 𝑚𝑣
6.626 𝑥 10−34
= = 8.6 𝑥 10−30 𝑥 3 𝑥 108 = 0.257 x 10-12 m = 0.257 pm
8. Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle rules out the existence of definite paths for electrons and other similar
particles.
a) State Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle. (1)
b) Calculate the uncertainty in the velocity of a cricket ball of mass 130 g, if the uncertainty in its position
is of the order of 1.2 A0. (2) [March 2012]
Ans: a) It states that “it is impossible to determine simultaneously, the exact position and exact
momentum (or velocity) of an electron”.
ℎ
b) We know that ∆x.m.∆v = 4𝜋 . Here m = 130g = 130 x 10-3 kg
h 6.626 𝑥 10−34
So, ∆x = = = 0.145 x 10-21 m
4π.mΔV 4 𝑥 3.14 𝑥 130 𝑥 10−3 𝑥 1.2 𝑥 10−10
9. a) In order to specify the size, energy, shape and orientation of orbitals and spin of the electrons, we need
4 quantum numbers.
i) Write the 4 quantum numbers. (1)
ii) Represent the orbital with the following quantum numbers, n = 4 and l = 0. (1)
b) State the rules behind the electronic configuration in an atom. (3) [September 2012]
Ans: a) i) Principal quantum number (n), azimuthal quantum number(l), magnetic quantum
number(m) and spin quantum number(s)
ii) 4s
b) 1. Aufbau principle: It states that the orbitals are filled in the increasing order of their energies.

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 2. Pauli’s Exclusion Principle states that no two electrons in an atom can have the same set of
four quantum numbers. Or, an orbital can accommodate a maximum of only two electrons with opposite
spin.
3. Hund’s rule states that electron pairing takes place in degenerate orbitals only after partially
filling all such orbitals.
10. The dual behaviour of matter was proposed by French physicist de Broglie.
a) State the dual behaviour of matter. (1)
-7
b) A moving electron has a de Broglie wave length of 7 x 10 m. Calculate its kinetic energy. (Planck’s
constant = 6.626 x 10-34 Js, mass of an electron = 9.1 x 10-31 kg) (2)
Ans: a) Matter has both particle nature and wave nature. This is known as dual behaviour of matter.
ℎ
b) From the de Broglie’s equation, λ = 𝑚𝑣
ℎ 6.626 𝑥 10−34
v = 𝑚𝜆 = 9 𝑥 10−31 𝑥 7 𝑥 10−7 = 0.104 x 104 m s-1
K.E = ½ mv2 = ½ x 9.1 x 10-31 x (0.104x104)2 = 0.049 x 10 -23 kJ/mol
11. The general features of the structure of a hydrogen atom and hydrogen like species were quantitatively
explained by Niels Bohr.
a) Write any postulate of the Bohr’s model of hydrogen atom. (1)
2+
b) Calculate the radius of the second orbit of Li . (Express answer in nm). (2)
Ans: a) Refer the answer of the question number 3 (a).
𝑎0 𝑛 2
b) Radius, rn =
𝑧
Here a0 = 52.9 pm, n=2 and z = 3 (for Li)
22
So rn = 52.9 x = 70.53 pm
3
12. Photoelectric effect was first observed by Hertz.
a) The number of electrons ejected in the photoelectric effect is proportional to ………….. of light used.
(frequency, intensity) (1)
b) Select the correct statement related to the photoelectric effect:
i) Threshold frequency is the maximum frequency required to photoelectric emission from a
particular metal.
ii) The kinetic energy of the photoelectrons is directly proportional to the frequency of incident
light.
iii) Work function is same for all metals. (1) [March 2013]
Ans: a) intensity
b) ii) The kinetic energy of the photoelectrons is directly proportional to the frequency of incident
light.
13. a) A large number of orbitals are possible in an atom. Using s, p, d or f notations describe the orbital with
the following quantum numbers. i) n = 4, l = 0 ii) n = 3, l = 2 (1)
b) The Balmer series of lines in the hydrogen spectrum appear in the visible region of the electromagnetic
spectrum. Calculate the wave number of the second line in the Balmer series. (Rydberg constant for
Hydrogen is 109677 cm-1) (2)

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 c) Bohr model of hydrogen atom contradicts dual behaviour of matter and Heisenberg’s uncertainty
principle. Justify. (2) [September 2013]
Ans: a) i) 4s ii) 3d
b) For the second line in Balmer series, n1 = 2 and n2 = 4
1 1 1 1 1 3
Wave number, ῡ = 𝜆 = 109677 (𝑛2 − ) = 109677 (22 − )= 109677 x 16 = 20564.4 cm-1
1 𝑛22 42
c) Bohr model did not consider the wave character of the electron. Also, the concept of orbit is against
Heisenberg uncertainty principle since both the position and the velocity of the electron in an orbit can
be determined simultaneously.
14. a) The number of electrons, protons and neutrons in a species are equal to 18, 16 and 16 respectively.
Assign the proper symbol to the species. (1)
b) Write any two drawbacks of the Rutherford model of atom. (2)
c) Among the following electronic configurations, which one is correct? Substantiate your answer.

(2) [March 2014]

Ans: a) 32X 2-

16

b) Refer the answer of the question number 4 (c).

c) (iii) is correct. This is because according to Hund’s rule, the electron pairing occurs only after
partially filling all the degenerate orbitals.
15. a) Write the subshell-wise electronic configurations of the following elements:
i) Cu (Z = 29), ii) Cr (Z = 24) give reason for the extra stability of these atoms. (2)
b) Canal rays were discovered by discharge tube experiments conducted in a modified cathode ray tube.
Give any two characteristics of canal rays. (1)
c) A microscope with suitable photons is employed to locate an electron in an atom within a distance of
0.4 A0. What is the uncertainty involved in the measurement of its velocity? (2) [August 2014]
10 1 2 2 6
Ans: a) i) 29Cu: [Ar] 3d 4s OR, 1s 2s 2p 3s 3p 3d 4s2 6 10 1

ii) 24Cr: [Ar] 3d54s1 OR, 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d5 4s1
This is because half-filled and completely filled electronic configurations have extra stability.
b) The nature of canal rays depends on the nature of gas present in the cathode ray tube. These
are positively charged gaseous ions. They are invisible and can be observed with the help of
fluorescent or phosphorescent materials.
c) Here ∆x = 0.4 A0 = 0.4x10-10 m, h = 6.626 x 10-34 Js, m = 9.1 x 10-31 kg, ∆v = ?
h
We know that ∆x.m.∆v =
4π
h 6.626 x 10−34
So, ∆v = = = 0.145 x 107 m/s
4π.mΔx 4 x 3.14 x 9.1 x 10−31 x 0.4 x 10−10
a) The number of protons, electrons and neutrons in a species are equal to 17, 18 and 18 respectively.
Which of the following will be the proper symbol of this species?
i) 1735Cl ii) 1735Cl– iii)1736Cl iv) 1736Cl– (1)

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 b) i) Give any 2 postulates of Rutherford’s nuclear model of an atom. (2)
ii) Write the two main drawbacks of Rutherford’s atomic model. (2)
Ans: a) 17 Cl35 –

b) i) The important postulates of Rutherford’s nuclear model of an atom are:

➢ All the positive charge and most of the mass of the atom are concentrated in an extremely
small region called nucleus.
➢ Electrons are revolving round the nucleus with a very high speed in circular paths called
orbits.
➢ Electrons and the nucleus are held together by electrostatic forces of attraction. [Any 2]
ii) Drawbacks: (i) Rutherford’s model cannot explain the stability of the atom.
(ii) He cannot explain the electronic structure of atom.
16. a) Representation of the orbital with quantum numbers n = 3, l = 1 is …………..
i) 3s ii) 3d iii) 3p iv) 1s (1)
b) i) Which of the following sets of quantum numbers are NOT possible?
1) n = 2, l = 2, ml = 0, ms = + ½
2) n=1, l = 0, ml = 0, ms = - ½
3) n = 3, l = 2, ml = -3, ms = + ½
4)n = 2, l = 1, ml = 1, ms = + ½ (2)
ii) Justify your answer. (2) [March 2015]
Ans: a) 3p
b) i) n = 2, l = 2, ml = 0, ms = + ½
n = 3, l = 2, ml = -3, ms = + ½
ii) When n =2, the values of l are 0 and 1. i.e. l cannot be 2
When l = 2, the values of ml are -2, -1, 0, +1 and +2. i.e. ml cannot be -3.
17. The quantum numbers provide / valuable information regarding electrons in an atom.
a) Which one of the following statements is CORRECT about quantum numbers?
i) The principal quantum number can have fractional values.
ii) The azimuthal quantum number defines the three dimensional shape of the orbital.
iii) The magnetic quantum number determines the size of the orbital.
iv) Spin quantum number gives information about the spatial orientation of the orbital with
respect to standard set coordinate axes. (2)
b) A photon has a wavelength of 3.5 A . Calculate its mass (Given h = 6.626 x 10-34 Js. Velocity of light =
0

3 x 108 m s-1) (2)

Ans: a) (ii) The azimuthal quantum number defines the three dimensional shape of the orbital.
ℎ
b) From the de Broglie’s equation, λ =
𝑚𝑣
h 6.626 𝑥 10−34
m= = = 6.31x 10-33kg
vλ 3 𝑥 108 𝑥 3.5 𝑥 10−10
18. The uncertainty principle contributed significantly in the formulation of the quantum mechanical model
of atom.
a) Which one of the following statements is CORRECT about the uncertainty principle?
i) The exact position and the exact momentum of an electron in an atom can be determined
simultaneously.
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 ii) It is a consequence of the dual behavior of matter and radiation.
iii) It is significant only for motion of microscopic objects and is negligible for that of macroscopic
objects.
iv) It supports the existence of definite paths or trajectories of electrons and other similar particles.
(1)
b) An electron is moving with a velocity of 2.5 x 106 m/s. lf the uncertainty in its velocity is 0.1%.
Calculate the uncertainty in its position. (Planck’s constant, h = 6.626 x 10 -34 Js. Mass of the electron =
9.1 x 10-31 kg). (2) [October 2015]

Ans: a) It is significant only for motion of microscopic objects and is negligible for that of macroscopic objects.

b) Here v = 2.5x106. Uncertainty in velocity (∆v) = 0.1% of 2.5x106 = 2.5x103, h = 6.626 x 10-34 Js,
m = 9.1 x 10-31 kg.
ℎ
We know that ∆x.m.∆v =
4𝜋
ℎ 6.626 𝑥 10−34
So, ∆x = = = 0.023 x 10-6 m
4𝜋.𝑚𝛥𝑉 4 𝑥 3.14 𝑥 9.1 𝑥 10−31 𝑥 2.5 𝑥 103
19. Atomic orbitals are precisely distinguished by what are known as Quantum numbers.
a) Name the four quantum numbers. (2)
b) Represent the orbitals given below:
i) n = 1, l = 0 ii) n = 2, l = 1 (2)
c) The number of unpaired electrons present in Ni is ………. (Atomic number of Ni = 28)
i) 2 ii) 0 iii) 1 iv) 3 (1) [March 2016]

Ans: a) Principal Quantum number (n), Azimuthal Quantum number (Ɩ), Magnetic Quantum number (m)
and Spin Quantum number (s)
b) (i) 1s (ii) 2p
c) 2
20. Bohr was the first to explain the structure of hydrogen atom and spectrum.
a) Give the main postulates of Bohr model of atom. (2)
b) Calculate the wavelength of the first line in Lyman series of the hydrogen spectrum (R = 109677 cm-1).
(3)
Ans: a) Refer the answer of the question number3 (a)
b) For the first line in Lyman series, n1 = 1 and n2 = 2
1 1 1 1 1
Wave number, ῡ = = 109677 ( − ) = 109677 (12 − ) = 109677 x ¾ = 82257.75 cm-1
𝜆 𝑛12 𝑛22 22
1 1
Wave length (λ) = = = 1.21 x 10-5 cm = 121 nm
ῡ 82257.75
21. a) There are some rules governing the filling of electron in orbitals. State and explain Hund’s rule of
maximum multiplicity. (2)
b) Quantum number gives the address of electrons. Explain the quantum number which determines:
i) Distance of electron from nucleus.

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 ii) The orbital angular momentum of electron. (3) [September 2016]
Ans: a) It states that electron pairing takes place only after partially filling all the degenerate orbitals.
For example the electronic configuration of N is 1s2 2s2 2px1py1pz1 and not 1s2 2s2 2px2py1.
b) (i) Principal Quantum number
(ii) Azimuthal or subsidiary Quantum number
22. a) i) Write the electronic configuration of chromium (z = 24) (1)
ii) Find the number of electrons in the subshell with azimuthal quantum number Ɩ =2. (1)
iii) Represent the orbital with quantum numbers n = 1 and l = 0 (1)
b) Give the mathematical representation of Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle and its one important
significance. (2) [March 2017]
Ans: a) (i) 24Cr: [Ar] 3d54s1 OR 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d5 4s1
(ii) Ɩ = 2 denotes d subshell, which can accommodate a maximum of 10 electrons.
(iii) 1s
b) Δx. Δp ≥ h/4π. This principle rules out the existence of definite paths or orbits for electrons.
23. a) Cathode rays are rays moving from cathode to anode. Give any two properties of cathode rays.
(2)
b) Write the electronic configuration of Cr. (1)
c) Draw the shapes of s and p orbitals. (2) [July 2017]
Ans: a) (i) Cathode rays start from cathode and move towards the anode.
(ii) They are invisible, but their behaviour can be observed with the help of fluorescent or
phosphorescent materials.
b) 24Cr: [Ar] 3d54s1 OR 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d5 4s1
c)

s orbital p orbital
24. How many angular nodes are present in a 5f-orbital? (1)
Ans: For f orbitals, no. of angular nodes = 3
25. Give the postulates of Bohr model of hydrogen atom. Also write two merits and two limitations of this
model. (4)
Ans: Refer the answer of Qn. No. 3 (a)
Merits: (i) It could explain the stability of atom
(ii) It could explain the line spectra of hydrogen atom and hydrogen like ions.
Demerits: (i) It could not explain the fine spectrum of hydrogen atom.
(ii) It could not explain the spectrum of atoms other than hydrogen.
26. Represent graphically, the variation of probability density (ψ2(r)) as a function of distance (r) of the
electron from the nucleus for 1s and 2s orbitals. (2) [March 2018]

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 Ans:

1s orbital 2s orbital

27. Name the quantum number which gives the spatial orientation of an orbital with respect to standard set
of co-ordinate axes. (1)
Ans: Magnetic Quantum number
28. Write two important results observed during photoelectric effect. (2)
Ans: (i) The electrons are ejected from the metal surface as soon as the beam of light strikes the surface.
(ii) The number of electrons ejected is proportional to the intensity or brightness of light.
(iii) For each metal, there is a minimum frequency called threshold frequency below which
photoelectric effect is not observed.
(iv) The kinetic energy of the ejected electrons is directly proportional to the frequency of the incident
light. [Any 2 required]
29. Explain how, the different series of lines are formed in the hydrogen spectrum. Derive an equation to find
the wave number of a line in the hydrogen spectrum. (4) [August 2018]
Ans:
According to Bohr atom model, line spectrum is formed by the excitation (de-excitation) of electron from
one energy level to another.
Consider two energy levels E1 and E2 in Hydrogen atom. The energy gap between the two orbits is given
by equation: ΔE = E2 – E1

But E1 = -RH and E2 = -RH

n12 n22
Therefore, ΔE = RH [1/n12 – 1/n22]
= 2.18 x 10-18 [1/n12 – 1/n22]
The frequency associated with the absorption and emission of the photon can be given as
ν = ΔE = RH 1 – 1
h h n12 n22
= 2.18 x 10-18 1 - 1
6.626 x 10-34 n12 n22

= 3.29 x 1015 [1/n12 – 1/n22]

The wave number (ῡ) = 1/ λ = ν = RH 1 - 1
c hc n12 n22

= 3.29 x 1015 1 - 1
3 x 108 n12 n22

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 = 1.09677 x 107 1 - 1 m-1 = 109677 1 - 1 cm-1
n12 n22 n12 n22

30. The minimum value for the product of uncertainties in position and momentum of a moving microscopic
particle is equal to .......... (1)
Ans: h/4π
31. Mention two observations which could not be explained by wave nature of electromagnetic radiations.
(2)
Ans: Black body radiation, photoelectric effect (variation of heat capacity of solids with temperature, line
spectra of atoms etc.)
32. Explain quantum numbers. Give the importance of quantum numbers in Pauli’s Exclusion Principle. (4)
[March 2019]
Ans: Refer the answer of the question number 1
According to Pauli’s exclusion principle, no two electrons in an atom can have the same set of 4 quantum
numbers. Or, an orbital can accommodate a maximum of only two electrons with opposite spin.
33. Represent the orbital with quantum numbers n = 5 and l = 3. (1)
Ans: 5f
34. The threshold frequency for a metal is 7.0 x 1014 s-1. Calculate the kinetic energy of an emitted electron
when radiation of frequency (ν) 1.0 x 1015 s-1 hits the metal. (2)
Ans: Here threshold frequency (ν0) = 7.0 x 10 s and frequency of radiation (ν) = 1.0 x 1015 s-1
14 -1

K.E of emitted electron = hν - hν0 = h(ν - ν0) = 6.626 x 10-34 (1.0 x 1015 - 7.0 x 1014) = 19.878 x 10-20 J
35. What are the important observations and conclusions made by Rutherford from his alpha ray scattering
experiment? Give any two limitations of Rutherford’s nuclear model of atom. (4) [July 2019]
Ans: The important observations made by Rutherford are:
(i) Most of the α– particles passed through the gold foil without any deviation.
(ii) A small fraction of the α–particles was deflected by small angles.
(iii) A very few α– particles bounced back (that is, deflected by nearly 180°).
Conclusions:
(iv) Most space in the atom is empty.
(v) The positive charge of the atom is concentrated in a very small volume at the centre called nucleus.
(vi) The volume occupied by the nucleus is negligibly small as compared to the total volume of the
atom.
Limitations: (i) Rutherford’s model cannot explain the stability of the atom.
(ii) He cannot explain the electronic structure of atom.
36. The number of radial nodes of 4p orbital is ……………
(a) 1 (b) 2 (c) 3 (d) 4 (1)
Ans: 2
37. Write any two characteristic properties of canal rays. (2)
Ans: The nature of canal rays depends on the nature of gas present in the cathode ray tube. These are
positively charged gaseous ions. They are invisible and can be observed with the help of fluorescent or
phosphorescent materials.
38. (a) Write the n and l values of a 4d electron. (1)

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 (b) Give the names of series of spectral lines of atomic hydrogen and their region in the electromagnetic
spectrum. (2)
(c) State Hund’s rule of maximum multiplicity. (1) [March 2020]
Ans: (a) For 4d electron, n =4 and l = 2
(b)
Series Spectral region
Lyman Ultra violet
Balmer Visible
Paschen Infra red
Brackett Infra red
Pfund Infra red

(c) It states that electron pairing takes place only after partially filling all the degenerate orbitals.
39. The quantum number which gives the energy of an electron in an atom is …….
(a) Principal quantum number (b) Azimuthal quantum number (c) Magnetic quantum number
(d) Spin quantum number (1)
Ans: (a) Principal quantum number
40. What is photoelectric effect? (2)
Ans: It is the process of ejection of electrons from the surface of some metals, when light of suitable
frequency incident on them.
41. (a) Sketch the shape of 2s orbital. (1)
(b) State Pauli’s exclusion principle. (1)
(c) Write the values of all quantum numbers for the last electron in sodium atom. (2) [December 2020]
Ans: (a)

(b) It states that no two electrons in an atom can have the same set of four quantum numbers.
(c) The electronic configuration of sodium is 11Na – 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s1.
Here the last electron is at 3s subshell.
The values of different quantum numbers for 3s subshell are n = 3, l = 0, m = 0 and s = + ½ or – ½.
42. Write the orbital representation for the following quantum numbers :
(a) n = 3, l = 1
(b) n = 5, l = 0 (2)
Ans: (a) 3p
(b) 5s
43. Identify the correct electronic configuration of Cu (z = 29) from the following and give reason for your
answer.

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 (a) Cu – 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d10 4s1
(b) Cu – 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d9 4s2
Ans: (a) The correct electronic configuration of Cu is 1s2 2s2 2p6 3s2 3p6 3d10 4s1
This is because of the extra stability of the completely filled d10 configuration.
44. (i) State Heisenberg uncertainty principle. (2)
(ii) Name any four spectral lines of hydrogen atom. (2)
Ans: (i) It states that “it is impossible to determine simultaneously, the exact position and exact
momentum (or velocity) of a moving microscopic particle like electron”.
Mathematically, ∆x.∆v = h
4πm
(ii) Lyman series, Balmer series, Paschen series, Brackette series and pfund series [Any 4 required]
45. (i) Write the conclusions of Rutherford Alpha ray scattering experiment. (2)
(ii) Write two demerits of Rutherford atom model. (2) [March 2021]
Ans: Refer the answer of the question number 4 (a) and (c).
46. Write any two important results observed during photoelectric effect. (2)
Ans: Refer the answer of the question number 29
47. Represent the orbitals with the following quantum numbers :
(i) n = 2, l = 1 (1)
(ii) n = 5, l = 0 (1)
Ans: (i) 2p
(ii) 5s
48. (i) Write the important observations made by Rutherford in his α-particle scattering experiment. (2)
(ii) What are the important postulates of Rutherford’s nuclear model of atom. (2)
Ans: Refer the answers of the question number 36 & 4
49. (i) State Heisenberg’s Uncertainty Principle. Give its mathematical expression. (2)
(ii) What will be the wavelength of a ball of mass 0.1 kg moving with a velocity of 10 m/s ?
(h = 6.626 x 10–34 Js) (2) [December 2021]
Ans: (i) a) It states that “it is impossible to determine simultaneously, the exact position and exact
momentum (or velocity) of a moving microscopic particle like electron”.
Mathematically, ∆x. ∆v = h Or, ∆x. ∆p = h/4π
4πm
(ii) From the de Broglie’s equation, λ = h
mv
Here m = 0.1 kg and v = 10 m/s
= 6.626 x 10-34 = 6.626 x 10-34 m
(0.1 x 10)
50. (i) Choose the correct set of quantum numbers from the following :
(A) n = 1, l = 0, m = 0, s = + ½
(B) n = 2, l = 2, m = –2, s = + ½
(C) n = 3, l = 1, m = –2, s = 1
(D) n = 1, l = 1, m = – 1, s = – ½ (1)
(ii) Sketch the shape of 2s orbital. (1)

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 Ans: (i) (A) n = 1, l = 0, m = 0, s = + ½
(ii)

51. Calculate the wavelength of an electron moving with a velocity of 10 m/s. (mass of electron = 9.1  10–31
kg) (2)
Ans: From the de Broglie’s equation,
λ= h
mv
Here m = 9.1 x 10-31kg and v = 10 m/s
So, λ = 6.626 x 10-34 = 7.281 x 10-5 m
9.1x 10-31 x 10
52. Write the postulates of Bohr’s model for Hydrogen atom. Mention any two demerits of the model.
(4) [March 2022]
Ans: Refer the answer of the question number 3.
53. Give any two salient features of Rutherford’s nuclear model of atom (2)
Refer the answer of the question number 4 (b).
54. State Pauli’s exclusion principle and Hund’s rule of maximum multiplicity. (2)
Refer the answer of the question number 2 (b)
55. (i) State Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle and give its mathematical expression. (2)
(ii) Complete the following table:

Principal Quantum number (n) Azimuthal Quantum number (i) Subshell notation
1 0
2 1
3 2
(2) [October 2022]
Ans: (i) Refer the answer of the question number 8 (a).
(ii)
Principal Quantum number (n) Azimuthal Quantum number (i) Subshell notation
1 0 1s
2 1 2p
3 2 3d

56. Write the de Broglie equation and explain the terms. (2)
Ans: de Broglie’s equation is λ = h/p or λ = h/mv
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 Where λ is the wavelength, m is the mass of the particle, v is its velocity and p is its momentum.
57. (i) Write the n and l values of a 3s electron. (1)
(ii) Which among the following is the correct electronic configuration of Nitrogen (Z = 7). Name the rule
that forms the basis of your answer. (a) 1s2 2s2 2px2 2py1 2pz0 (b) 1s2 2s2 2px1 2py1 2pz1 (1)
Ans: (i) n = 3 and l = 0
(ii) (b) 1s2 2s2 2px1 2py1 2pz1 is correct. The rule behind this is Hund’s rule of maximum multiplicity.

58. Write the observations and conclusions of Rutherford’s -ray scattering experiment. (3)

Ans:
Observations Conclusions
1. Most of the α– particles passed through the 1. Most space in the atom is empty.
gold foil without any deviation.

2. A small fraction of the α–particles was 2. The positive charge of the atom is concentrated in
deflected by small angles. a very small volume at the centre called nucleus.
3. A very few α– particles (approximately 1 out 3. The volume occupied by the nucleus is negligibly
of 20,000) bounced back [i.e. deflected by small as compared to the total volume of the
nearly 180°]. atom. [The radius of the atom is about 10–10 m,
while that of the nucleus is 10–15 m].

59. (i) Write the name of any four series of spectral lines in the atomic spectrum of Hydrogen. (2)
(ii) What are the limitations of Bohr’s model of atom ? (2) [March 2023]

Ans: (i) Lyman series, Balmer series, Paschen series, Brackett series and pfund series. [Any 4 required]
(ii) The important limitations of Bohr atom model are:
1. It could not explain the fine spectrum of hydrogen atom.
2. It could not explain the spectrum of atoms other than hydrogen.
3. It was unable to explain Stark effect and Zeeman effect.
4. It could not explain the ability of atoms to form molecules by chemical bonds.
5. It did not consider the wave character of matter and Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle.
60. Name any four spectral lines of Hydrogen atom. (2)
Ans: (i) Lyman series, Balmer series, Paschen series, Brackett series and pfund series. [Any 4 required]
61. (i) Write the n and l values of 4p electron. (1)
(ii) State Aufbau principle. (1)
Ans: (i) n = 4 and l = 1
(ii) It states that the orbitals are filled in the increasing order of their energies or (n + l) values.
62. (i) Write any 2 characteristic properties of cathode rays. (1)
(ii) What is photoelectric effect? What are its characteristics? (2)
Ans: (i) Refer the answer of Question number 24 (a)
(ii) Refer the answer of Question number 41 and 29.
63. (i) Write any two postulates put forward by Rutherford in his nuclear model of atom. (2)

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 (ii) State Heisenberg uncertainty principle. Write mathematical equation for it. (2) [October 2023]
Ans: (i) Refer the answer of Question number 4 (b)
(ii) Refer the answer of Question number 45 (i)
64. Dual nature of matter was proposed by Louis de Broglie. Calculate the de Broglie wavelength associated
with an electron with velocity 1.6  106 m/s. (2)
Ans: Refer the answers of the question number 2 (a)
65. Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle rules out the existence of definite path for electrons. State
Heisenberg’s uncertainty principle with equation. (2)
Ans: Refer the answers of the question number 8 (a)
66. (i) Write the names of four quantum numbers. (2)
(ii) State Pauli’s exclusion principle. (1)
Ans: (i) Principal quantum number (n), Azimuthal quantum number (l), Magnetic quantum number (m)
and Spin quantum number (s)
(ii) Refer the answers of the question number 2 (b)
67. (i) Explain Bohr model of Hydrogen atom. (2)
(ii) Write any two drawbacks of Rutherford model of atom. (1)
(iii) What is photoelectric effect ? (1) [March 2024]
Ans: (i) Refer the answers of the question number 3 (a)
(ii) Rutherford’s model could not explain the stability of the atom.
He could not explain the electronic structure of atom.
(iii) It is the process of ejection of electrons from the surface of some metals, when light of suitable
frequency incident on them.
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