Chapter 5.3, Problem 22PP

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:

In ground state chlorine contains total of seven electrons. The number of electrons that occupy in p orbitals needs to be explained. Also, the number of electrons in p orbitals out of 17 needs to be determined.

Concept introduction:

The order of electrons in an atom is called electron configuration. Since low-energy systems are more stable compared to high-energy systems, electrons in an atom usually assume the arrangement that provides the smallest possible energy for the atom.

Answer to Problem 22PP

In ground state five electrons are present. Out of 17 electrons 11 electrons are present at the p orbitals.

Explanation of Solution

Electron configuration of Cl is as follows:

$1s^{2}2s^{2}2p^{6}3s^{2}3p^5$ or $\left[Ne\right]3s^{2}3p^5$

From the electron arrangement, it is clear that the five electrons are there in the p orbitals in ground state.

Again, it is clear that a total of 11 electrons are present at the p orbital out of 17.

Conclusion

Ground-state electron configuration is the electrons' most stable arrangement with lower energy around the nucleus of the atom.