Question

how many electrons can the n = 4 shell hold?
○ 8
○ 16
○ 32
○ 64

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the formula for electron capacity

The formula for the maximum number of electrons in a shell with principal quantum number \( n \) is \( 2n^2 \).

Step2: Substitute \( n = 4 \) into the formula

Substitute \( n = 4 \) into \( 2n^2 \). So we have \( 2\times(4)^2 \). First, calculate \( 4^2 = 16 \), then multiply by 2: \( 2\times16 = 32 \).

Answer:

32 (corresponding to the option "32")