Atomic orbitals: 3p radial distribution function

Schematic plot of the 3p radial distribution function 4πr²ψ_3p²

For 3p-orbitals, the radial distribution function is related to the product obtained by multiplying the square of the radial wave function R_3p by r². By definition, it is independent of direction.

All of p-orbitals have one planar node, The 3p radial distribution function shows one radial nodes and the higher p orbitals show more. The number of nodes is related to the principal quantum number, n. In general, the np orbital have (n - 2) radial nodes. Therefore, the 3p-orbital has (3 - 2) = 1 radial nodes, as shown in the above plot. Radial nodes become evident in the higher p-orbitals ( 4p, 5p, 6p, and 7p) while lower p-orbitals (2p) show fewer.