Grade 12 chemistry homework help -- 2n^2 electrons possible in each energy level

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the formula for calculating the maximum number of electrons in an energy level, expressed as 2n², where n represents the principal quantum number. A classmate incorrectly concludes that the highest value of n must be 8 based on the maximum electron count of 118, overlooking that n can extend indefinitely. The correct interpretation is that while the maximum number of electrons in known elements is currently 118, the theoretical framework allows for infinite energy levels, thus n can be any positive integer. This highlights a common misunderstanding in quantum chemistry regarding the limitations of n.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of quantum numbers in atomic structure
  • Familiarity with the concept of electron configuration
  • Knowledge of the periodic table and electron count of elements
  • Basic principles of chemistry and atomic theory
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the implications of quantum mechanics on electron configurations
  • Study the periodic trends in electron configurations and atomic structure
  • Explore advanced topics in quantum chemistry, including the Schrödinger equation
  • Learn about the limitations of the periodic table and potential undiscovered elements
USEFUL FOR

High school chemistry students, educators teaching atomic theory, and anyone interested in the fundamentals of quantum mechanics and electron configurations.

allanwinters
Messages
5
Reaction score
0

Homework Statement



A classmate says "Since there are 2n^2 electrons possible in each energy level, and the atom with the greatest number of electrons has 118 electrons, that must mean that u is the highest possible value for n, because a value of 7 gives 2n^2 = 98 nad a value of 8 gives 2n^2=128.

Homework Equations



a) state two problems with this reasoning
b)How many energy levels are there for a given atom

The Attempt at a Solution


So far I said the problem for his reasoning was that the value of n can range from n=1 to n= infinity for a) and for b) I've said that there are an infinite amount of energy levels in an atom.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
When I was born element with the highest electron count had only 103 electrons.

Also, I never had more than $10.000 on my bank account. Does it mean $10.000 is the largest amount of money bank account can hold?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
7K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Replies
3
Views
5K
Replies
1
Views
8K
Replies
3
Views
7K