Chemistry Atomic Structure UHS 2024
PMDC Verified Question 3 of 95
Which of the following electronic configuration is correct for carbon?
A
\( 1s^2, 2s^2, 2p^3 \)
B
\( 1s^2, 2s^2, 2p^4 \)
C
\( 1s^2, 2s^2, 2p^2 \)
D
\( 1s^2, 2s^2, 2p^1 \)
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Propolis Cognitive Error Autopsy

Official Correct Choice:
Option C: \( 1s^2, 2s^2, 2p^2 \)
Concept: The electronic configuration maps the exact location of all electrons in an atom based on the Aufbau principle.

Formula: $$ Z = \sum \text{electrons} $$

Solution:
  • Carbon (C) is element number 6 on the periodic table, so it has \( Z = 6 \).
  • A neutral atom of Carbon has exactly 6 electrons to place.
  • First, the lowest energy level \( 1s \) gets 2 electrons: \( 1s^2 \).
  • Next, the \( 2s \) orbital gets 2 electrons: \( 2s^2 \).
  • There are \( 6 - 4 = 2 \) electrons remaining. These go into the \( 2p \) subshell: \( 2p^2 \).
  • Final configuration: \( 1s^2, 2s^2, 2p^2 \).


Why other options are incorrect: Option A is Nitrogen (7 electrons). Option B is Oxygen (8 electrons). Option D is Boron (5 electrons).

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