The PEL can contain up to how many electrons?

The PEL can contain up to how many electrons?

• A. 2
• B. 6
• C. 8
• D. 18

Answer: (C)

Electrons are limited in how many can occupy a principal energy level by the formula 2n^2, where n is the energy level number. For the second energy level, n = 2, so it can hold 2 × (2^2) = 8 electrons. That’s why the PEL discussed can contain up to eight electrons. (The first level holds 2, the third holds 18, and so on, increasing with n.)

Electrons are limited in how many can occupy a principal energy level by the formula 2n^2, where n is the energy level number. For the second energy level, n = 2, so it can hold 2 × (2^2) = 8 electrons. That’s why the PEL discussed can contain up to eight electrons. (The first level holds 2, the third holds 18, and so on, increasing with n.)