Electron Configuration

• Electron Configuration


  To know the arrangement of electrons in an atom; how electrons are distributed among the orbitals in an atom
• Each electron in an atom has a unique set of quantum numbers
• Condensed/Noble Gas Electron Configuration is a shortcut method
• Closer to the nucleus, smaller the value
• Type of Orbitals


  • s sub-shell - circular - 2 electrons
  • p sub-shell - dumbbell - 6 electrons
  • d sub-shell - 4 leaf clover - 10 electrons
  • f sub-shell - diffused/random - 14 electrons
• Electrons behave like waves
• Aufbau Principle/Rule


  In the ground state of an atom/ion, electrons first fill subshells of lowest available energy, then fill subshells of higher energy
• Diagonal Rule for electron configuration is presented
• Orbital - region/shape where electrons may be found
• We can't determine the location & behavior of electrons but can predict
• Orbital Sequence continues until all electrons in an atom have been assigned to orbitals
• Aufbau Principle


  States that the lowest orbitals/orbitals with lower energies than those with higher energies must be occupied by electrons first