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Ch.8 - Periodic Properties of the Elements
Chapter 8, Problem 46d

Use the periodic table to determine the element corresponding to each electron configuration. d. [Kr] 5s2

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Identify the noble gas in the electron configuration. In this case, it is [Kr], which stands for Krypton.
Understand that the notation [Kr] represents the electron configuration of Krypton, which has 36 electrons. This configuration is the starting point for the element in question.
Note the additional electrons beyond the noble gas configuration. Here, '5s<sup>2</sup>' indicates there are two electrons in the 5s orbital.
Add the two electrons in the 5s orbital to the total number of electrons represented by Krypton. This gives you 36 (from Krypton) + 2 (from the 5s orbital) = 38 electrons.
Use the periodic table to find the element with an atomic number of 38. This element is Strontium (Sr).

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Electron Configuration

Electron configuration describes the distribution of electrons in an atom's orbitals. It is represented using a notation that indicates the energy levels and sublevels occupied by electrons. For example, the configuration [Kr] 5s² indicates that the element has a core of electrons similar to krypton, with two additional electrons in the 5s orbital.
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Periodic Table

The periodic table organizes elements based on their atomic number, electron configurations, and recurring chemical properties. Elements in the same group often exhibit similar behaviors due to their similar valence electron configurations. Understanding the layout of the periodic table helps in identifying elements based on their electron configurations.
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Identifying Elements

To identify an element from its electron configuration, one must consider the total number of electrons, which corresponds to the atomic number. In the case of [Kr] 5s², krypton has 36 electrons, and the two additional electrons bring the total to 38, identifying the element as strontium (Sr), which has an atomic number of 38.
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