ATI TEAS Practice Science Test Related

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How many electrons are typically found in each shell of a neutral aluminum atom with 13 electrons in its electron cloud?

  • A. 6 in the first shell, 7 in the second shell
  • B. 2 in the first shell, 11 in the second shell
  • C. 2 in the first shell, 8 in the second shell, 3 in the third shell
  • D. 3 in the first shell, 5 in the second shell, 5 in the third shell
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In a neutral aluminum atom with 13 electrons, the electron distribution typically follows the electron shell filling order based on the Aufbau principle. The first shell can hold a maximum of 2 electrons, the second shell can hold up to 8 electrons, and the third shell can hold up to 8 electrons as well. Therefore, the distribution would be 2 electrons in the first shell, 8 electrons in the second shell, and 3 electrons in the third shell, totaling 13 electrons. Choice A is incorrect as it exceeds the maximum number of electrons the shells can hold. Choice B is incorrect as it does not distribute the electrons correctly among the shells. Choice D is incorrect as it also does not distribute the electrons correctly among the shells.