1. regions around an atomic nucleus where electrons are likely to be found
Usage: chemistry; physics

Examples

• The s orbitals are spherical in shape.
• Electrons occupy different orbitals based on their energy levels.
• The p orbitals have a dumbbell shape.
• Chemistry students learn about atomic orbitals in their first year.
• The d orbitals are more complex than s and p orbitals.
• Molecular orbitals form when atomic orbitals overlap.
• Each orbital can hold a maximum of two electrons.