Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct electron configuration for a neutral lithium (Li) atom?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
The Electron Configuration
Multiple Choice
Which of the following orbital diagrams correctly represents the electron configuration for fluorine (F)?
A
1s: ↑↓ 2s: ↑↓ 2p: ↑ ↑ ↑
B
1s: ↑↓ 2s: ↑↓ 2p: ↑↓ ↑↓ ↑
C
1s: ↑↓ 2s: ↑↓ 2p: ↑↓ ↑↓ ↑↓
D
1s: ↑↓ 2s: ↑↓ 2p: ↑↓ ↑ ↑
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Determine the total number of electrons in a fluorine atom. Fluorine has an atomic number of 9, so it has 9 electrons.
Step 2: Fill the orbitals in order of increasing energy using the Aufbau principle: first fill 1s, then 2s, then 2p orbitals.
Step 3: Fill the 1s orbital with 2 electrons (paired spins), then fill the 2s orbital with 2 electrons (paired spins). This accounts for 4 electrons so far.
Step 4: Distribute the remaining 5 electrons into the three 2p orbitals. According to Hund's rule, place one electron in each 2p orbital first (all with parallel spins), then pair the remaining electrons.
Step 5: Verify the final electron configuration matches the orbital diagram with 1s: ↑↓, 2s: ↑↓, and 2p: ↑↓ ↑ ↑, which correctly represents fluorine's 9 electrons.
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