Multiple Choice
Which of the following is the correct electron configuration for boron (atomic number 5)?
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10. Periodic Properties of the Elements
The Electron Configuration
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Orbitals are best described as __________.
A
the physical location of neutrons within the nucleus
B
regions in space where there is a high probability of finding an electron
C
the energy levels of protons in an atom
D
fixed paths that electrons follow around the nucleus
Verified step by step guidance1
Understand that orbitals are a concept from quantum chemistry used to describe where electrons are likely to be found around an atom's nucleus.
Recall that electrons do not move in fixed paths like planets around the sun; instead, their positions are described by probability distributions.
Recognize that an orbital is defined as a region in space where there is a high probability of finding an electron at any given time.
Note that orbitals are not related to the physical location of neutrons (which are inside the nucleus) or the energy levels of protons (which are part of the nucleus).
Therefore, the best description of orbitals is that they are regions in space where there is a high probability of finding an electron.
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The Electron Configuration practice set
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