Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct electron configuration for indium (atomic number 49)?
1
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 helium?
A
2s^2
B
1s^2 2s^2
C
1s^2
D
1s^1 2s^1
Verified step by step guidance1
Recall that helium has an atomic number of 2, meaning it has 2 electrons to place in its electron configuration.
Understand that electrons fill orbitals starting from the lowest energy level, which is the 1s orbital.
Write the electron configuration by placing both electrons in the 1s orbital, since it can hold up to 2 electrons: $1s^2$.
Check the other options: $2s^2$ implies electrons in the second energy level without filling the first, which is incorrect for helium.
Confirm that $1s^2 2s^2$ and $1s^1 2s^1$ both suggest more than 2 electrons or incorrect distribution, so the correct configuration is $1s^2$.
Related Videos
Related Practice
The Electron Configuration practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations