Chapter 5.3, Problem 23PP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

Number of electrons that involves in third energy level of Sulfur is needs to be explained.

Concept introduction:

The order of electrons in an atom is called electron configuration. Since low-energy systems are more stable compared to high-energy systems, electrons in an atom usually assume the arrangement that provides the smallest possible energy for the atom.

Answer to Problem 23PP

In third energy level Sulfur has six electrons.

Explanation of Solution

Electron configuration of S is as follows:

$1s^{2}2s^{2}2p^{6}3s^{2}3p^4$ or $\left[Ne\right]3s^{2}3p^4$

From the electron arrangement it is clear that six electrons are present in the third energy level. The outer orbital electrons are less tightly bound with nucleus. So, in chemical reaction, these electrons are cooperating.

Conclusion

Ground-state electron configuration is the electrons' most stable arrangement with lower energy around the nucleus of the atom.