Chemistry Hesi A2 Related

Review Chemistry Hesi A2 related questions and content

What is the correct electron configuration for carbon?

  • A. 1s²2s²2p¹
  • B. 1s²2s²2p²
  • C. 1s²2s²2p³
  • D. 1s²2s²2p⁶3s¹
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct electron configuration for carbon is 1s²2s²2p². This configuration indicates that there are 2 electrons in the first energy level (1s²), 2 electrons in the second energy level (2s²), and 2 electrons in the second energy level (2p²). It adheres to the aufbau principle, which states that electrons fill orbitals starting from the lowest energy level, and the Pauli exclusion principle, which states that each electron in an atom must have a unique set of quantum numbers. Choice A is incorrect because it does not fill the 2p orbital correctly. Choice C is incorrect as it exceeds the number of possible electrons in the 2p orbital. Choice D is incorrect as it includes an electron in the 3s orbital, which is not part of the electron configuration for carbon.