Which letter corresponds to orbital L=0?

In quantum mechanics, the orbital angular momentum quantum number, denoted as ( L ), determines the shape of an electron's orbital and corresponds to specific types of orbitals. The value of ( L ) can take on non-negative integer values starting from zero.

For ( L = 0 ), the orbital is referred to as an "s" orbital. This is because the letter "s" corresponds to spherical-shaped orbitals, which are characterized by ( L = 0 ). The "s" orbital has no angular nodes and describes the most straightforward and symmetrical shape available among the orbital types.

The other types of orbitals correspond to higher values of ( L ). For instance, ( L = 1 ) is designated for "p" orbitals, ( L = 2 ) for "d" orbitals, and ( L = 3 ) for "f" orbitals. Therefore, the correct identification of ( L = 0 ) as the "s" orbital accurately reflects the foundational principles of quantum chemistry regarding orbital shapes and characteristics.