Why are orbitals named as s, p, d and f? Is there any reason for that?

Question

Why are orbitals named as s, p, d and f? Is there any reason for that?

In: Chemistry

Answer 1

A simple google search for “Orbital Names” will give you the answer:

From [https://www.thoughtco.com/angular-momentum-quantum-numbers-606461](https://www.thoughtco.com/angular-momentum-quantum-numbers-606461)

>The orbital names s, p, d, and f stand for names given to groups of lines originally noted in the spectra of the alkali metals. These line groups are called sharp, principal, diffuse, and fundamental.