Multiple Choice
Which element has the electron configuration 1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^6 4s^2 3d^{10}?
3
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
The Electron Configuration
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Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple Choice
What is the maximum number of electrons that can occupy a single p orbital?
A
2
B
1
C
6
D
3
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that an orbital is a region in space where there is a high probability of finding an electron. Each orbital can hold a certain maximum number of electrons based on the Pauli exclusion principle.
Understand that a p orbital is one of the three orbitals (p_x, p_y, p_z) in the p subshell, each with a specific shape and orientation.
According to the Pauli exclusion principle, each orbital can hold a maximum of 2 electrons, and these electrons must have opposite spins.
Therefore, even though there are three p orbitals in a p subshell, each individual p orbital can only hold up to 2 electrons.
Conclude that the maximum number of electrons that can occupy a single p orbital is 2.
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