Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct electron configuration for a neutral lithium (Li) atom?
3
views
10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
The Electron Configuration
Struggling with General Chemistry?
Join thousands of students who trust us to help them ace their exams!Watch the first videoMultiple 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.
Related Videos
Related Practice
The Electron Configuration practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations