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How to write the electronic configuration of an element ?

The electronic configuration of an element is defined as follows: A stepwise distribution of electrons in different orbits (energy levels) of an atom is called its electronic configuration. To write the electric configuration of an element, one should proceed as follows.

By |2010-12-30T17:37:40+00:00December 30, 2010|Chemistry|Comments Off on How to write the electronic configuration of an element ?

How can the electronic configuration of an element explain its chemical reactivity ?

The electronic configuration of an element gives an idea about its reactivity. The elements having a completely filled outermost orbit (or shell) will be chemically inert (non-reactive). For example, the outermost shell in the case of helium (He), neon (Ne) and argon (Ar) are completely filled as shown below.

By |2010-12-30T17:34:55+00:00December 30, 2010|Chemistry|Comments Off on How can the electronic configuration of an element explain its chemical reactivity ?

How is the charge on an ion calculated ?

Atoms are electrically neutral. A positive ion (or cation) is formed when an atom loses one or more electrons. An electron carries one unit of negative charge. So, the number of units of positive charge only a cation is equal to the number of electrons lost by the concerned atom.

By |2010-12-30T17:08:07+00:00December 30, 2010|Chemistry|Comments Off on How is the charge on an ion calculated ?
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