Electron Configuration Review

Front

What is electron configuration?

Back

The distribution of electrons in an atom's orbitals, described by a series of numbers and letters that indicate the energy levels and sublevels occupied by electrons.

Front

What does the notation [Xe] represent in electron configuration?

Back

It represents the electron configuration of the noble gas Xenon, indicating that the electron configuration of the element continues from that of Xenon.

Front

How many electrons can the second energy level hold?

Back

8 electrons.

Front

What is the maximum number of electrons in the third energy level?

Back

18 electrons.

Front

What is an unpaired electron?

Back

An unpaired electron is an electron that is alone in an orbital and not paired with another electron.

Front

How many unpaired electrons does a neutral Nitrogen atom have?

Back

3 unpaired electrons.

Front

What is the electron configuration for a neutral Sodium atom?

Back

1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s¹.

Front

What happens to an atom when it loses a valence electron?

Back

It becomes a positive ion (cation).

Front

What is the electron configuration for Zinc?

Back

1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰.

Front

What is the significance of valence electrons?

Back

Valence electrons determine an atom's chemical properties and its ability to bond with other atoms.