Subshell Definition for Electrons

A subshell is a subdivision of electron shells separated by electron orbitals. Subshells are labelled s, p, d, and f in an electron configuration. Subshell Examples Here is a chart of subshells, their names, and the number of electrons they can hold: Subshell Maximum Electrons Shells Containing It Name s 0 2 every shell sharp p 1 6 2nd and higher principal d 2 10 3rd and higher diffuse f 3 14 4th and higher fundamental For example, the first electron shell is the 1s subshell. The second shell of electrons contains the 2s and 2p subshells. Relating Shells, Subshells, and Orbitals Each atom has an electron shell, which is labeled K, L, M, N, O, P, Q or 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, moving from the shell closest to the atomic nucleus and moving outward. Electrons in outer shells have higher average energy than those in inner shells. Each shell consists of one or more subshells. Each subshells is composed of atomic orbitals. Source Jue,  T. Quantum Mechanic Basic to Biophysical Methods. Fundamental Concepts in Biophysics.  Humana Press, 2009, New York.