The maximum number of electrons present in a shell is given by the formula-

Question

Question

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RRB JE CBT I - (Held On: 2 June 2019 Shift 3)

Answer 1

The correct answer is 2n²

Key Points

The maximum number of electrons that can be accommodated in a shell is given by the formula 2n².
Here, n represents the principal quantum number of the shell.
This formula is derived from the principles of quantum mechanics and reflects the arrangement of electrons in various energy levels or shells around the nucleus of an atom.
For example, for the first shell (n = 1), the maximum number of electrons is 2(1)² = 2 electrons.
For the second shell (n = 2), the maximum number of electrons is 2(2)² = 8 electrons.
This distribution follows the Pauli Exclusion Principle and the Aufbau Principle in atomic structure.

Additional Information

The arrangement of electrons in an atom is crucial for understanding its chemical properties and behavior.
The concept of electron shells and their capacities helps in explaining the periodic trends and the formation of chemical bonds.
The principal quantum number (n) can take any positive integer value (1, 2, 3, ...).
Each shell is further divided into subshells and orbitals, which are governed by other quantum numbers.