Multiple choice

What determines the properties of an element in the periodic table?

  1. Number of protons

  2. Electronic configuration

  3. Atomic number

  4. Mass number
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B Correct answer
Explanation

The distribution of electrons in different orbitals is known as its electronic configuration. This characterizes each electron in an atom. The electronic configuration is expressed by indicating the principal quantum number and its respective orbital along with the number of electrons present in it. For example, the notation 3px1 indicates that in the third principal shell there is one electron in the 'px' orbital.

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