A p orbital is a type of atomic orbital that describes the region around an atom's nucleus where electrons are likely to be found. It has a distinct shape, resembling a dumbbell, and can hold a maximum of six electrons. There are three p orbitals in each energy level starting from the second level, designated as p_x, p_y, and p_z, which are oriented at right angles to each other. P orbitals play a crucial role in the chemical bonding of atoms. They are involved in the formation of covalent bonds and contribute to the overall shape and reactivity of molecules. Understanding p orbitals is essential for studying quantum mechanics and chemical properties of elements.