Chapter 5, Problem 61A

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation : The maximum number of electrons in any orbital of an atom is to be found.

Concept Introduction : Electronic configurations refer to the arrangements of electrons in different orbitals around atoms' nuclei. The Aufbau principle, the Pauli exclusion principle, and Hund's rule are three rules that can be used to determine the electronic configuration of atoms.

Answer to Problem 61A

The maximum number of electrons that can be found in any orbital of an atom is two.

Explanation of Solution

The Pauli exclusion principle states that an atomic orbital can only describe a maximum of two electrons.

The spins of the two electrons must be in opposition to one another, otherwise, they cannot be paired.

An electron's spin, which can be thought of as going either clockwise or counterclockwise, is a quantum mechanical feature.