s orbitals, often referred to as “sharp” orbitals, are a type of atomic orbital that represents the electron distribution around an atomic nucleus. These orbitals have spherical symmetry and are characterized by having no nodal planes within their shape. Here are some key characteristics of s orbitals:

1. Shape: S orbitals have a spherical shape centered on the nucleus of the atom. The electron density is distributed uniformly in all directions around the nucleus.
2. Size: The size of an s orbital increases with increasing principal quantum number (n), which corresponds to higher energy levels or larger electron shells.
3. Number of Electrons: Each s orbital can hold a maximum of two electrons due to the Pauli exclusion principle, which states that no two electrons in an atom can have the same set of quantum numbers.
4. Energy Levels: S orbitals with the same principal quantum number (n) are degenerate, meaning they have the same energy. However, s orbitals with different values of n have different energy levels, with higher energy levels being farther from the nucleus.
5. Hydrogen Atom: In a hydrogen atom, the electron is most likely to be found in the s orbital when it is in the ground state (lowest energy state). The s orbital is designated as 1s.
6. Nodes: S orbitals have no nodal planes within their shape. A nodal plane is a region where the probability of finding an electron is zero.
7. Quantum Numbers: The principal quantum number (n) specifies the energy level and size of the s orbital. The angular quantum number (l) is 0 for s orbitals.
8. Radial Distribution: The probability of finding an electron at a certain distance from the nucleus is highest at the center of the spherical s orbital and decreases as the distance increases.

S orbitals are important building blocks in atomic and molecular orbital theory. They play a role in chemical bonding and the formation of covalent bonds when atoms share electrons. The arrangement and combination of s orbitals with other types of orbitals contribute to the overall shape and geometry of molecules.