Angular vs. Radial Nodes

[EllerySchlingmann1E]

Hi,

Just wondering if anyone can explain the difference between angular and radial nodes in terms of nodal planes for orbitals. They are mentioned in the textbook, I don't know how to differentiate them. Thanks so much!

[Nathan Mariano 2G]

Radial nodes are spherical regions, while angular nodes are flat planes (or cones). The probability of finding an electron in both of these regions is zero. Radial nodes have fixed radii, while angular nodes have fixed angles. For radial nodes, the principal quantum number determines the number in an atom. For angular momentum nodes, the angular momentum quantum number determines the number in an atom.