Periodic table - certain no. of atoms in the 1st 4 rows

[Ags Ivana]

Homework Statement

Explain why the first four rows of periodic table have 2, 8, 8 and 18 atoms respectively

Homework Equations

I have a feeling this has something to do with the central field approximation OR the s, p, d, f orbitals and how many electrons can go in each OR something else

The Attempt at a Solution

 

[BvU]

Hello Ivana,

What is the context of your question ? Did you learn about the subjects that you have a feeling have to do with this exercise ?
How may electrons can go in an s orbital ? And in a p orbital ?

PS PF guidelines require a real attempt at solution, i.e. a bit more than "a feeling". So pick one and work it out !

PS I'm sorry to see your first thread petered out altogether...