Chapter 5, Problem 16STP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

The diagram of an orbital diagram that violates the Aufbau principle needs to be identified.

Concept introduction:

According to the Aufbau principle in the ground state, an electron first enters the lowest energy level and further electrons are added to the orbitals with increasing energies.

Answer to Problem 16STP

Correct answer: The correct option is D.

Explanation of Solution

According to the Aufbau principle, the electron first enters into the lowest energy level. The options are as follows:

Therefore, the correct diagram that violates the Aufbau principle is option D.

The p-orbital cannot be filled unless the $2s$ orbital contains two electrons. The other electron needed is a spin down electron.

Conclusion

The correct diagram that violates the Aufbau principle is option D because the p-orbital cannot be filled unless the $2s$ orbital contains two electrons. The other electron needed is a spin down electron.