Question 1: Explain in your own words what is meant by the electronic structure of an atom.

Answer: The arrangement of electrons in an atom's energy levels or shells, which determines its chemical properties and reactivity.

Question 2: Why is the electronic configuration of elements important in engineering materials?

Answer: Because it influences properties such as conductivity, strength, corrosion resistance, and reactivity, which are critical in engineering applications.

Question 1: Define the term 'electron shell' as used in atomic structure.

Answer: A group of atomic orbitals that share the same energy level where electrons are likely to be found.

Question 2: Describe how the electronic structure of aluminium (atomic number 13) differs from that of sulphur (atomic number 16).

Answer: Aluminium has the electronic configuration 2, 8, 3, with three electrons in its outermost shell, making it lightweight and good for structural use. Sulphur has the configuration 2, 8, 6, with six electrons in its outermost shell, which makes it reactive and useful in vulcanisation and chemical industries.

Question 1: Calculate the number of electrons in the outermost shell of the element with atomic number 29 (Copper).

Answer: 1

Question 2: An engineering alloy contains 60% aluminium (atomic number 13) and 40% copper (atomic number 29) by mass. Calculate the average number of outer shell electrons per atom in this alloy.

Answer: Approximately 4.5 electrons per atom

Question 1: Design a simple experiment to test the electrical conductivity of a metal sample. List the variables involved and safety precautions to consider.

Answer: The experiment involves connecting the metal sample in a circuit with a power supply and a voltmeter. Variables include the type of metal, temperature, and contact points. Safety precautions include ensuring the circuit is correctly insulated, avoiding short circuits, and handling electrical equipment with dry hands.

Question 1: A new alloy designed for aerospace engineering shows a high electrical conductivity and corrosion resistance. Its main component has an outer shell configuration of 3s^2 3p^1. Identify the element and explain how its electronic structure contributes to these properties.

Answer: The element is aluminium. Its outer shell with 3 electrons allows for a lightweight, conductive, and corrosion-resistant material suitable for aerospace applications.

Question 2: In a manufacturing process, engineers need to select elements with specific electronic configurations to optimise strength and durability. Explain how understanding electronic structures helps in selecting such elements.

Answer: Understanding electronic structures helps engineers predict properties such as bonding strength, malleability, and resistance to corrosion. Elements with full outer shells or specific valence electrons can form strong metallic bonds, leading to durable and reliable materials for engineering purposes.