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Chapter 7: Problem 74

What is meant by the term "shielding of electrons" in an atom? Using the \(\mathrm{Li}\) atom as an example, describe the effect of shielding on the energy of electrons in an atom.

Short Answer

Expert verified
Electron shielding refers to the reduction in positive atomic nuclear charge experienced by an electron due to the repulsive effect of inner shell electrons. For a Lithium atom, its third electron in the L-shell experiences shielding due to the two K-shell inner electrons. This results in the third electron having a higher energy level as it is bound less tightly to the nucleus.

Step by step solution

01

Definition of electron shielding

Electron shielding refers to the phenomenon where the positive charge of the atomic nucleus is 'shielded' from outer electrons by the inner-shell electrons, due to repulsion between similar charges. In simple terms, not all of the nucleus' positive charge 'reaches' the outer electrons due to interference by those in the inner shell.
02

Applying knowledge to the Li atom

In the case of a Lithium atom (\(\mathrm{Li}\)), there are three electrons. Two electrons are in the inner shell (K-shell) closest to the nucleus and the third electron is in the next shell (L-shell). So when we consider the third electron in the L-shell, the positive nuclear charge it experiences is reduced or 'shielded' due to the two K-shell electrons.
03

Effect on energy levels due to shielding

Due to electron shielding, the outermost electron(s) experience less nuclear attraction. This causes them to be bound less tightly to the nucleus and hence possess higher energy than if they were subject to the full nuclear charge. In contrast, the electrons in the inner shells are less shielded and thus have lower energy as they are more tightly bound to the nucleus due to the stronger nuclear attraction.

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