This is because the fourth shell consists of four types of subshells The total number of electrons that can reside in these subshells adds up to 32 Therefore, the correct answer is option c In my textbook, it says that the maximum number of electrons that can fit in any given shell is given by 2n² This would mean 2 electrons could fit in the first shell, 8 could fit in the second shell, 18 in the third shell, and 32 in the fourth shell. Can hold up to 32 electrons
These numbers follow the formula 2 n 2, where n is the shell number (1 for the first shell, 2 for the second, and so on) Keep in mind that in many cases, especially for lighter elements, not all these slots are filled. Use the formula $$2n^ {2}$$2n2 to determine the maximum number of electrons that can occupy a shell with principal quantum number $$n$$n. Substitute $$n=4$$n=4 into the formula: $$2 (4)^ {2} = 2 (16) = 32$$2(4)2=2(16)=32. Following this trend, the fourth shell ($n=4$) has a maximum capacity of 32 electrons ($2 (4)^2$) This rule provides the foundational concept for understanding how electrons are distributed across the energy levels. Determine the formula for electron capacity<br /> The maximum number of electrons in a shell is given by **$2n^2$**.<br />2. Calculate using $n=4$<br /> Substitute $n=4$ into the formula: $2 (4)^2 = 2 \times 16 = 32$.
Simplify the expression inside the parentheses first Multiply by 2 to find the maximum number of electrons $2 \times 16 = 32$ electrons.
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