Multiple Choice
What is the electron configuration of chlorine (Cl)?
364
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
In the third energy level (n = 3), how many electrons can occupy the 3d subshell?
A
2
B
14
C
6
D
10
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that the principal quantum number $n$ indicates the energy level, and the azimuthal quantum number $l$ defines the subshell type: $l = 0$ for s, $l = 1$ for p, $l = 2$ for d, and $l = 3$ for f subshells.
Identify the subshell in question: the 3d subshell corresponds to $n = 3$ and $l = 2$.
Determine the number of orbitals in the 3d subshell using the formula: number of orbitals = $2l + 1$. For $l = 2$, this gives $2 \times 2 + 1 = 5$ orbitals.
Recall that each orbital can hold a maximum of 2 electrons with opposite spins according to the Pauli exclusion principle.
Calculate the total number of electrons in the 3d subshell by multiplying the number of orbitals by 2: $5 \times 2 = 10$ electrons.
Related Videos
Related Practice
The Electron Configuration practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations