6p

6p is a designation used in multiple disciplines to indicate different concepts, depending on the context. In scientific terminology, it most often refers to the sixth principal energy level and its associated p-type orbital, while in technical catalogs it can denote a six-position component.

In atomic physics and chemistry, 6p denotes the p-type orbital with principal quantum number n = 6 (the sixp subshell). This subshell becomes relevant for elements in the sixth period of the periodic table, where the 6p block comprises the elements Tl, Pb, Bi, Po, At, and Rn (Z = 81–86). The 6p electrons contribute to the valence in these elements and their chemical behavior reflects relativistic and shielding effects that influence energy ordering and reactivity at high atomic numbers.

In spectroscopy and atomic term notation, 6P is a term symbol representing a state with total spin multiplicity 6 (2S+1 = 6, so S = 5/2) and orbital angular momentum L = 1 (P). Such a 6P term can give rise to multiple total angular momentum J values (3/2, 5/2, 7/2, 9/2) under coupling schemes, and it is used to classify specific electronic energy levels in atoms and ions observed in spectra.

In engineering and electronics, 6P commonly appears as a shorthand for a six-position connector or pin count (for example, 6P in catalog descriptions or in combinations like 6P4C for six positions and four conductors). It is used across telecommunications, automotive, and other practical hardware contexts.

See also: p-block, period 6, atomic orbital, spectroscopic term symbol, electrical connector.