Multiple Choice
Which of the following statements correctly describes p orbitals?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
The Electron Configuration
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Which of the following electron configurations represents an atom in an excited state?
A
1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^1
B
1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^1
C
1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2
D
1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^1 3p^1
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that an atom in its ground state has electrons filling the lowest available energy orbitals first, following the Aufbau principle, Hund's rule, and the Pauli exclusion principle.
Write out the expected ground state electron configuration for the element in question by filling orbitals in order of increasing energy without leaving lower energy orbitals partially filled if higher ones have electrons.
Compare each given electron configuration to the expected ground state configuration to identify any deviations where electrons occupy higher energy orbitals while lower energy orbitals are not fully filled.
Recognize that an excited state configuration occurs when one or more electrons have been promoted to higher energy orbitals, leaving lower energy orbitals partially filled or empty.
Identify the configuration where an electron is found in a higher energy orbital (such as 3p) while a lower energy orbital (such as 3s) is not fully occupied, indicating an excited state.
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