Homework #23

[206190205]

Identify the neutral element represented by this excited-state electron configuration, then write the ground-state electron configuration for that element.
Excited state: 1s^2 2s^2 2p^4 3s^1
What is the difference between the excited state and the ground state of an electron configuration?

[Valeria Perez 3J]

If you compare the ground state and excited state electron configuration, you'll notice that despite having the same number of electrons is that one of the electrons from the 2p orbital has risen energy levels and gone to 3s. The excited state configuration reflects how the electron jumps up to a higher energy level when excited, a state that does not last very long due to its instability.