Question

what is the $m_s$ value (magnetic spin) for the electronic configuration diagram for sodium?

1. sulfur, s, 16
2. argon, ar, 18
3. aluminum, al, 13
4. sodium, na, 11

+6
+3
+1/2
-3
-1/2

Explanation:

Step1: Recall the rules for \(m_s\) values

The \(m_s\) (magnetic spin) quantum number has only two possible values. It represents the spin of an electron. The two values are \(+\frac{1}{2}\) (spin - up, represented by \(\uparrow\)) and \(-\frac{1}{2}\) (spin - down, represented by \(\downarrow\)).

Step2: Analyze the electron - spin in sodium's electronic configuration diagram

Looking at the diagram for sodium (Na, 11), the last - placed electron (the electron in the outermost sub - shell) is represented by \(\uparrow\). According to the convention, the \(\uparrow\) symbol corresponds to \(m_s=+\frac{1}{2}\).

Answer:

\(+\frac{1}{2}\)