Write the full electron configuration for each element. a. C b. P c. Ar d. Na

The Aufbau principle, which translates to 'building-up' in German, is a foundational concept used to determine the electron configuration of atoms. It states that electrons fill atomic orbitals of the lowest available energy levels before occupying higher levels. Think of it as a methodical way of organizing a classroom with students taking their seats starting from the front row, which is closest to the board and therefore the most accessible.

When applying the Aufbau principle as seen in the exercise, Carbon, with an atomic number of 6, starts filling electrons from the lowest energy orbital, 1s, moving subsequently to 2s and 2p. This approach simplifies the process of deducing the correct configuration for any element on the periodic table.

The concept of orbital filling order goes hand in hand with the Aufbau principle and dictates the sequence in which orbitals are filled. Electrons don't randomly occupy positions around the nucleus; they follow a specific order based on subshell energy. The order follows the sequence: 1s, 2s, 2p, 3s, 3p, and continues progressively through the periodic table.

In our exercise, after filling the 1s and 2s orbitals, Phosphorus (P) places electrons in the 2p orbitals, continues to the 3s, and finally into the 3p orbital. This sequential filling is crucial for understanding an atom’s electronic structure and its resultant chemical behavior. A useful mnemonic device often employed is the 'n+ℓ rule,' where orbitals are filled in order of increasing n+ℓ values, with 'n' being the principal quantum number and ℓ the azimuthal quantum number.

The atomic number is a term integral to the study of chemistry and atomic theory. It is defined as the number of protons found in the nucleus of an atom and, by extension, also represents the number of electrons in a neutral atom. The atomic number ultimately determines an element's identity and its position on the periodic table.

As per the step by step solution in the exercise, Sodium (Na) with an atomic number of 11 contains 11 protons and, when uncharged, has 11 electrons as well. Knowing the atomic number allows you to count out the electrons needed and apply the Aufbau principle and orbital filling order to write the electron configuration. For example, elements with higher atomic numbers will have more complex electron configurations, often involving a larger number of orbitals.