p orbitals, often referred to as “principal” orbitals, are a type of atomic orbital that represents the electron distribution around an atomic nucleus. Unlike s orbitals, p orbitals have a dumbbell or peanut-like shape with two lobes on opposite sides of the nucleus. Here are some key characteristics of p orbitals:

1. Shape: P orbitals have a dumbbell shape with two lobes separated by a nodal plane. The nodal plane is a region where the probability of finding an electron is zero.
2. Orientation: There are three mutually perpendicular p orbitals designated as px, py, and pz. Each orbital is aligned along one of the coordinate axes (x, y, or z) in a Cartesian coordinate system.
3. Number of Electrons: Each p orbital can hold a maximum of two electrons, consistent with the Pauli exclusion principle.
4. Energy Levels: P orbitals with the same principal quantum number (n) but different azimuthal quantum numbers (l) have different energies. P orbitals have higher energy levels than s orbitals in the same energy shell.
5. Quantum Numbers: The principal quantum number (n) specifies the energy level of the p orbital. The azimuthal quantum number (l) is 1 for p orbitals. The magnetic quantum number (m) can have three values (-1, 0, 1) for the three different p orbitals (px, py, pz).
6. Radial Distribution: The probability of finding an electron at a certain distance from the nucleus is highest at the two lobes of the p orbital and decreases in the nodal plane.
7. Angular Nodes: P orbitals have one angular node, which is the nodal plane passing through the nucleus. This node separates the two lobes.
8. Hybridization: P orbitals can participate in hybridization with other types of orbitals (s and d orbitals), leading to the formation of hybrid orbitals with different shapes and orientations.
9. Contribution to Molecular Shape: The arrangement and combination of p orbitals with other orbitals contribute to the overall shape and geometry of molecules.

P orbitals are important in explaining the geometry of molecules and the formation of covalent bonds. They play a role in the bonding and interactions between atoms, contributing to the diversity of molecular structures and properties.