Multiple Choice
A ground state atom of Mg could not have any electrons with which of the following electron configurations?
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 is the correct electron configuration for a neutral carbon atom (atomic number 6)?
A
1s^2 2s^2 3s^2
B
1s^2 2s^2 2p^2
C
1s^2 2s^2 2p^4
D
1s^2 2s^2 2p^6
Verified step by step guidance1
Step 1: Identify the atomic number of carbon, which is 6. This means a neutral carbon atom has 6 electrons.
Step 2: Recall the order in which electron orbitals are filled according to the Aufbau principle: 1s, 2s, 2p, 3s, and so on.
Step 3: Fill the electrons into the orbitals starting from the lowest energy level: first fill 1s with 2 electrons, then 2s with 2 electrons.
Step 4: After filling 1s and 2s orbitals, place the remaining electrons (6 - 4 = 2 electrons) into the 2p orbital.
Step 5: Write the electron configuration by combining the filled orbitals: $1s^2 2s^2 2p^2$.
Related Videos
Related Practice
The Electron Configuration practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations