Question

what does the aufbau principle state?

a. electrons will be added to an atom in a random order.

b. electrons will be added to an atom starting from the lowest possible level or sublevel.

c. electrons will be added to an atom in a symmetrical manner.

d. electrons will be added to an atom only if the orbitals are different colors.

e. electrons will be added to an atom in order of their size.

Explanation:

The Aufbau principle in chemistry (a subfield of Natural Science) states that electrons fill atomic orbitals in order of increasing energy, meaning they start from the lowest possible energy level or sublevel. Option A is incorrect as electrons don't fill randomly. Option C's "symmetrical manner" is not what the principle states. Option D is absurd (orbitals have no color). Option E is incorrect as size isn't the basis. Only Option B matches the Aufbau principle's definition.

Answer:

B. Electrons will be added to an atom starting from the lowest possible level or sublevel.