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electron configuration orbitals
A LevelChemistry~5 min read
Overview
This lesson delves into the arrangement of electrons within atoms, exploring how electron configuration dictates an element's chemical properties. We will learn about atomic orbitals, their shapes and energy levels, and how to apply rules to correctly assign electrons to these orbitals.
Introduction to Quantum Numbers
To precisely describe the state of an electron in an atom, we use **four quantum numbers**: * **Principal Quantum Number (n):** This number determines the **main energy level** or shell an electron occupies. It can be any positive integer (1, 2, 3, ...). Higher values of 'n' indicate higher ener...
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Key Concepts
- Electron Configuration: The distribution of electrons of an atom or molecule (or other physical structure) in atomic or molecular orbitals.
- Atomic Orbital: A mathematical function that describes the wave-like behavior of either one electron or a pair of electrons in an atom.
- Principal Quantum Number (n): Defines the energy level and the size of the orbital.
- Azimuthal/Angular Momentum Quantum Number (l): Defines the shape of the orbital (s, p, d, f).
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Exam Tips
- →Practice writing electron configurations for elements up to Z=36 (Krypton), including common ions, paying close attention to the 4s and 3d orbital filling order for transition metals.
- →Be able to draw orbital diagrams, ensuring correct application of Hund's Rule and the Pauli Exclusion Principle (opposite spins in paired electrons, parallel spins in singly occupied degenerate orbitals).
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