Question

what atom matches this electron configuration? 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s²

Explanation:

Step1: Calculate the total number of electrons

The electron configuration is \(1s^{2}2s^{2}2p^{6}3s^{2}\).
Sum the exponents: \(2 + 2+6 + 2=\sum_{i}n_{i}\)

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Step2: Relate the number of electrons to the atomic number

In a neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the atomic number \(Z\). So \(Z = 12\).

Answer:

Magnesium