Question

multiple choice 1 point
consider the electron energy orbital diagram for the sodium atom (shown at the left) in its ground state (lowest energy state):
which orbital(s) shown in the diagram contain(s) electrons closest to the nucleus?
1s orbital
2s orbital
2p orbitals
3s orbital

Explanation:

In an atom, electrons fill orbitals starting from the lowest energy level (closest to the nucleus). The energy order of orbitals is \(1s < 2s < 2p < 3s\). The \(1s\) orbital has the lowest energy and is closest to the nucleus.

Answer:

A. 1s orbital