Chapter U1.18, Problem 1E

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The electronic configuration of an element needs to be explained on the basis of its position in the periodic table.

Concept introduction:

Position of an element in the periodic table means group and period to which the element belongs in the periodic table.

Answer to Problem 1E

From position of element that is the period and group, the electronic configuration of element can be determined.

Explanation of Solution

From the group number of the element, the number of valence electrons can be determined.

From the period number, the name of the last orbit where electrons are present can be determined. For example Phosphorous belongs to group 15 and period 3. Thus there will be total three shells or orbits and there will be 5 valence electrons.

The electronic configuration will be as follows:

1s²2s²2p⁶3s²3p³

There are total 5 electrons in the valence shell which is clear from last shell(3^rd) electrons in 3s and 3p.

Conclusion

Thus, from period and group number, the electronic configuration of an element can be predicted.