How many orbitals are in the p subshell?

The p subshell contains a total of three orbitals. This is a fundamental aspect of electron configuration and quantum mechanics. Each p orbital can hold a maximum of two electrons, leading to a maximum of six electrons that can be accommodated in the entire p subshell.

The p orbitals are organized in a specific manner in three-dimensional space, oriented along the x, y, and z axes. These are often designated as the px, py, and pz orbitals. Their shape is characteristic and is described as a "dumbbell" configuration, which distinguishes them from the s orbitals that have a spherical shape.

Understanding that there are three orbitals in the p subshell is crucial for determining the electron configuration of elements, particularly in the context of the periodic table where the position of an element can indicate the filling of these subshells.