Chemistry HESI A2 Practice Test Related

Review Chemistry HESI A2 Practice Test related questions and content

What is the correct electron configuration for lithium?

  • A. 1s²2s¹
  • B. 1s²2s²
  • C. 1s²2s¹2p¹
  • D. 1s¹2s¹2p²
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The electron configuration for lithium is 1s²2s¹. Lithium has 3 electrons, and the configuration indicates that the first two electrons fill the 1s orbital, while the third electron fills the 2s orbital. Therefore, the correct electron configuration for lithium is 1s²2s¹. Choice B (1s²2s²) is incorrect as it represents the electron configuration for beryllium, not lithium. Choice C (1s²2s¹2p¹) includes the 2p orbital, which is not involved in lithium's electron configuration. Choice D (1s¹2s¹2p²) is incorrect as it does not accurately represent lithium's electron configuration.