Question

The electron configuration for magnesium is shown below.

1s22s22p63s2

Which diagram shows the correct distribution of electrons in the electron shells of a magnesium atom?

Answer 1

The diagram that represent the correct distribution of electrons in electrons shell of Magnesium atom is Diagram 3

Step-by-step explanation

Magnesium has three electron shell, that is 2.8.2 whereby the first electron shell hold a maximum of two electrons, the second one hold a maximum of eights electrons while the rest two electrons(valence electrons) are distributed in the 3rd electron shell.

Answer 2

The third option is correct as it has a total of 12 electrons, with 2 in the valence shell.