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Chapter 11: Problem 5

What generalization can be made about 2 electrons in a "filled" \(s\) subshell?

Short Answer

Expert verified
A filled s subshell contains two electrons with opposite spins.

Step by step solution

01

Understand the structure of an s subshell

In quantum mechanics, electrons in an atom are structured in shells and subshells. The s subshell is a type of atomic orbital. It is spherical in shape and is found in all energy levels. A key characteristic is that each s subshell can hold a maximum of 2 electrons.
02

Explore Electron Pairing and Spin

Those two electrons in an s subshell will have opposite spins, a quantum property. One electron will be 'spin up' and the other will be 'spin down'. This follows the Pauli Exclusion Principle, which states that each electron in an atom must have a unique set of quantum numbers. Therefore, two electrons in the same subshell must have different spin quantum numbers.
03

Declare the Generalization

The generalization that can be made about a filled s subshell is that it contains two electrons with opposite spins. This satisfies the Pauli Exclusion Principle and creates a particularly stable and low energy state for the atom.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Is H paramagnetic or diamagnetic? Explain your reasoning.

How many "pairs" of electrons are there in a "filled" \(p\) subshell?

Why is the situation of equal numbers of spin up and spin down electrons referred to as all the electrons being "paired"?

Consider performing a Stern-Gerlach experiment on a beam of atoms that has two unpaired electrons. Would the magnetic moment be greater than, less than, or equal to the magnetic moment of \(\mathrm{H}\) ? Explain your reasoning.
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