Question about Quantum Number Sets?

Question

I wanted to know: how do you figure out if a quantum number set is possible? Thanks--I really need this information to help me study for my midterm.

Answer 1

you can tell if the set is possible by remembering the following:

n is always a whole number larger than 0
l must be between 0 and n-1
m will include all the numbers between -l and +l (letter l), ie if l=2, then the possible m values will be -2, -1, 0, +1, +2
s will be either +1/2 or -1/2

Answer 2

The value of principal quantum no which describes the size of the orbital is a natural no. i.e- n=1,2,3,4,5,6...............
The value of azimuthal quantum no which describes the shape of the orbital is -
L=0 to (n-1)
{the L is written in small letters but it resembles with capital i }
The magnetic quantum no. which describes the orientation of orbital in magnetic field is -
m= -l to +l {including 0}
The spin quantum no. which describes the spin of the electron is +1/2 or -1/2