Multiple Choice
Which of the following sketches best represents a d orbital in the electron configuration of an 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 represents the correct electron configuration for a neutral atom of iron (Fe, atomic number 26)?
A
1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^6 4s^2 4p^6
B
1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^6 3d^8 4s^2
C
1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^6 4s^2 3d^6
D
1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^6 3d^10 4s^2
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the atomic number of iron (Fe), which is 26. This means a neutral iron atom has 26 electrons to arrange in its electron configuration.
Recall the order of filling electron orbitals based on the Aufbau principle: 1s, 2s, 2p, 3s, 3p, 4s, then 3d.
Fill the orbitals in order with electrons, remembering the maximum number of electrons each subshell can hold: s (2 electrons), p (6 electrons), d (10 electrons).
After filling 1s^2, 2s^2, 2p^6, 3s^2, and 3p^6 (which accounts for 18 electrons), place the remaining 8 electrons starting with 4s (2 electrons) and then 3d (6 electrons).
Write the final electron configuration as $1s^2\ 2s^2\ 2p^6\ 3s^2\ 3p^6\ 4s^2\ 3d^6$, which correctly represents the distribution of 26 electrons in a neutral iron atom.
Related Videos
Related Practice
The Electron Configuration practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations