How do you write orbital notation?
Quick Answer
Write the orbital notation for any element by using the information on the periodic table to determine the number of electrons in each orbital. Orbitals are represented by the letters s, p, d and f.
Continue ReadingFull Answer
Locate the element on the periodic table
Find the total number of electrons for an element on the periodic table.
Move across and down to place electrons in the orbitals
Beginning with the first element, hydrogen, in the upper-left of the table, count out the number of elements in each orbital. Count columns of alkali metals for the s-orbitals, transition metals for d-orbitals, main group elements for p-orbitals and Lanthanides and Actinides for f-orbitals.
Write the orbital level, type and total electrons present
As you move across the periodic table, notate the electrons by first listing the level of the orbital and then listing the type of orbital. After the letter, use superscript to show how many electrons are present in that level of the orbital. For example, 1s^2 is the proper notation for helium, with the numeral "1" representing the first orbital level, "s" representing the type of orbital and the exponent "2" showing that there are two electrons in that orbital. In addition, 1s^1 represents hydrogen because the exponent shows that orbital holds only one electron.
Reach the element on the periodic table
When you reach the specified element on the periodic table, the notation is complete.
Related Questions
-
Q:
How do you find the number of electrons in an element?
A: To find the number of electrons an element has, locate it on the periodic table of elements, find the atomic number, and note the number of protons; becaus... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How are isotopes of the same element alike?
A: Isotopes of the same element have the same number of protons and electrons when in neutral atomic form. Different isotopes have different numbers of neutro... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How many electrons does platinum have?
A: Platinum is a group ten element with 78 electrons and 117 neutrons; it has the symbol Pt and atomic number 78. With six energy levels, Platinum's electron ... Full Answer >Filed Under: -
Q:
How many electrons does chromium have?
A: An atom of chromium with no charge has a total of 24 electrons, as indicated by the element's atomic number on the periodic table of elements. The atom als... Full Answer >Filed Under:
