Write the distribution of electrons in carbon and sodium atoms

General
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write the distribution of electrons in carbon and sodium atoms

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What is the electron distribution in carbon and sodium atoms?

Answer:

The distribution of electrons in an atom refers to how an atom’s electrons are arranged in its electron shells or energy levels. This arrangement is crucial in determining the chemical properties and reactivity of an element. The electron distribution for any element can be determined from its position on the periodic table, which indicates the number of electrons in each energy level.

Step 1: Understanding Electron Shells

  • Electron Shells: These are regions around the nucleus of an atom where electrons are likely to be found. The shells are numbered 1, 2, 3, etc., starting from the shell closest to the nucleus. Each shell can hold a specific maximum number of electrons:
    • The first shell (closest to the nucleus) can hold up to 2 electrons.
    • The second shell can hold up to 8 electrons.
    • The third shell can hold up to 18 electrons, but is commonly filled with up to 8 in many light elements.

Step 2: Distribution for Carbon (C)

  • Atomic Number: Carbon has an atomic number of 6, which means it has 6 protons and, in a neutral atom, 6 electrons.
  • Electron Configuration:
    • The first 2 electrons will fill the first shell: 2
    • The remaining 4 electrons go into the second shell: 4

Therefore, the electron distribution for carbon is:

  1. First Shell: 2 electrons
  2. Second Shell: 4 electrons

Step 3: Distribution for Sodium (Na)

  • Atomic Number: Sodium has an atomic number of 11, indicating it has 11 protons and, in a neutral atom, 11 electrons.
  • Electron Configuration:
    • The first shell will hold 2 electrons: 2
    • The second shell will hold the next 8 electrons: 8
    • The last electron will go into the third shell: 1

Thus, the electron distribution for sodium is:

  1. First Shell: 2 electrons
  2. Second Shell: 8 electrons
  3. Third Shell: 1 electron

Final Answer:

To summarize, the electron distributions are as follows:

  • Carbon (C): 2, 4
  • Sodium (Na): 2, 8, 1

Understanding these distributions is pivotal for comprehending the chemical behaviors of the elements, like bonding and reactivity, where electron arrangements play a key role.