Multiple Choice
What is the total number of partially occupied 2p orbitals in a nitrogen atom (atomic number 7) in its ground state?
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 the element gallium (Ga)?
A
1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^6 4s^2 3d^9 4p^2
B
1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^6 4s^2 3d^{10} 4p^1
C
1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^6 4s^2 3d^{10} 4p^3
D
1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^6 4s^2 3d^8 4p^3
Verified step by step guidance1
Identify the atomic number of gallium (Ga), which is 31. This tells us the total number of electrons to place in the electron configuration.
Recall the order of filling orbitals according to the Aufbau principle: 1s, 2s, 2p, 3s, 3p, 4s, 3d, 4p, and so on.
Start filling the orbitals with electrons, following the order and remembering the maximum electrons each subshell can hold: s (2), p (6), d (10).
After filling 1s^2, 2s^2, 2p^6, 3s^2, 3p^6, and 4s^2, place the next 10 electrons in the 3d subshell to get 3d^{10}.
Finally, place the remaining electron in the 4p subshell, resulting in 4p^1, completing the electron configuration for gallium as 1s^2 2s^2 2p^6 3s^2 3p^6 4s^2 3d^{10} 4p^1.
Related Videos
Related Practice
The Electron Configuration practice set
Problem sets built by lead tutorsExpert video explanations