Question

An atom Q has a total number of 17 electrons. Calculate the number of electrons in the N-shell.

Answer 1

According to Bohr-Bury scheme, the maximum number of electrons in each orbit is given by the formula $2$ $\times$ $n^2$.

Therefore, the maximum number of electrons in the shells is:
K-shell = 2 electrons
L-shell = 8 electrons
M-shell = 18 electrons
N-shell = 32 electrons

The electrons are not accommodated in a given shell, unless the inner shells are filled. That is, the shells are filled in a step-wise manner.

Hence, the 17 electrons can be distributed as follows:
K-shell = 2 electrons
L-shell = 8 electrons
M-shell = 7 electrons
N-shell = 0 electrons

Hence, atom Q has 0 electrons in its N-shell.