Question

1. analyze: electrons are arranged in orbits called energy levels. the gizmo shows all of the first two energy levels but only part of the third energy level. a. how many electrons can fit in the first energy level? ______ b. how many electrons can fit in the second energy level? ____ c. how many electrons fit in the part of the third energy level shown? ______

Explanation:

Step1: First energy - level capacity

The first energy level can hold a maximum of 2 electrons. This is based on the quantum - mechanical model of the atom where the first shell has only one s - orbital and an s - orbital can hold 2 electrons.

Step2: Second energy - level capacity

The second energy level can hold a maximum of 8 electrons. It has one s - orbital (2 electrons) and three p - orbitals (6 electrons), so in total 2 + 6=8 electrons.

Step3: Third energy - level shown capacity

The part of the third energy level shown in many common models (the s - and p - orbitals) can hold 8 electrons. The third shell has an s - orbital (2 electrons) and three p - orbitals (6 electrons).

Answer:

A. 2
B. 8
C. 8