Orbital Theory

Orbital Theory describes how electrons move around an atom's nucleus in regions called orbitals. Instead of simple paths like planets orbit the sun, electrons behave more like waves and particles, existing in probabilistic regions where they are likely to be found. These orbitals come in different shapes and sizes, determined by the electron's energy level. Understanding orbitals helps explain an atom’s chemical properties and how it bonds with other atoms, forming molecules. Overall, it’s a way to describe the complex, quantum-mechanical behavior of electrons that shapes the structure of matter.