Max # of electrons in an atom whose highest-energy electrons have n=5

In summary, the maximum number of electrons that can occupy the n=5 energy level in an atom is 50. This is because the n=5 energy level has 5 sublevels, each with a maximum capacity of 10 electrons. The n=5 energy level can hold more electrons than the n=4 energy level, as the number of sublevels and capacity of each sublevel increases with higher energy levels. However, the number of electrons in the n=5 energy level does not directly affect the overall stability of an atom, as stability is determined by the arrangement and energy levels of all electrons. An atom can have more than 50 electrons in total, even with its highest energy electrons in the n=5 energy level,
  • #1
paridiso
17
0
What is the maximum number of electrons in an atom whose highest-energy electrons have the principal quantum number ?

I tried 54 and 110. Neither was correct.
 
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  • #2
Probably yes, but is the atom in its ground state?

What are the subshells in the n=5 shell? Which element has the highest atomic number in those subshells?
 
  • #3
The first sentence I posted is everything given in the problem. I'm assuming it's in a ground state but I'm not sure.
 

1. What is the maximum number of electrons that can occupy the n=5 energy level in an atom?

The maximum number of electrons that can occupy the n=5 energy level in an atom is 50. This is because the n=5 energy level has 5 sublevels, each with a maximum capacity of 10 electrons.

2. Can the n=5 energy level hold more electrons than the n=4 energy level?

Yes, the n=5 energy level can hold more electrons than the n=4 energy level. This is because as the energy level increases, the number of sublevels and the maximum capacity of each sublevel also increases.

3. How does the number of electrons in the n=5 energy level affect the overall stability of an atom?

The number of electrons in the n=5 energy level does not directly affect the overall stability of an atom. The stability of an atom is determined by the arrangement and energy levels of all its electrons, not just those in the highest energy level.

4. Can an atom have more than 50 electrons in total if its highest energy electrons are in the n=5 energy level?

Yes, an atom can have more than 50 electrons in total even if its highest energy electrons are in the n=5 energy level. This is because the n=5 energy level is not the highest energy level in an atom, and there can be electrons in higher energy levels as well.

5. How does the number of electrons in the n=5 energy level affect the chemical properties of an atom?

The number of electrons in the n=5 energy level can affect the chemical properties of an atom as it determines the valence electrons, which are involved in chemical bonding. However, the chemical properties of an atom are also influenced by the number and arrangement of electrons in other energy levels.

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