Question 1: Electronic structure refers to the arrangement of electrons in the orbitals of an atom. It determines the chemical properties of an element and how atoms interact with each other.

Answer: The arrangement of electrons in an atom's orbitals that influences its chemical behavior.

Question 1: Define 'electron configuration'.

Answer: Electron configuration is the distribution of electrons in the orbitals of an atom.

Question 2: Explain why electrons occupy different energy levels or shells around the nucleus.

Answer: Electrons occupy different energy levels to minimize repulsion and because they fill the lowest available energy levels first due to energy stability; this arrangement follows the Aufbau principle.

Question 3: What is the maximum number of electrons that can occupy the third energy level (shell)?

Answer: 18

Question 1: Calculate the total number of electrons in an atom of Sulfur (atomic number 16).

Answer: 16

Question 2: Write the electron configuration notation for a Neon atom (atomic number 10).

Answer: 1s² 2s² 2p⁶

Question 1: Describe a simple experiment to determine the electronic configuration of an element using spectroscopy.

Answer: A student can use emission spectroscopy by exciting the atoms in a sample with electricity, then analyzing the emitted light spectrum. The wavelengths correspond to specific electron transitions, revealing the electronic structure.

Question 2: Identify two safety precautions that should be taken when performing spectroscopy experiments.

Answer: Wear safety goggles to protect eyes from bright light and handle electrical equipment carefully to avoid shocks.

Question 1: An element shows emission lines at wavelengths of 410 nm, 434 nm, and 656 nm. What can be inferred about its electronic structure?

Answer: The element emits specific wavelengths indicating electrons transition between energy levels; these lines suggest the element has a defined electron configuration similar to hydrogen or a similar element.

Question 2: A sample of element X has an electron configuration of 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s¹. Describe the electronic structure and what element it likely is.

Answer: The configuration indicates 19 electrons, which corresponds to Potassium (K). The structure shows electrons fill lower energy levels first, with one electron in the 4s orbital.

Question 1: Explain how knowledge of electronic structures is used in the development of laser technology.

Answer: Lasers rely on specific electronic transitions within atoms or molecules. By understanding electronic structures, scientists can select materials with suitable energy levels to produce coherent light at desired wavelengths for applications like communication and medicine.

Question 2: Describe how electronic structure knowledge helps in designing new pharmaceuticals.

Answer: Understanding how electrons are arranged in atoms of elements in drug molecules helps predict reactivity and interactions with biological targets, aiding in the design of effective pharmaceuticals.