How many electrons are in the following isotope: 7131ga+3 – Embark on a scientific expedition to determine the number of electrons in the enigmatic isotope 7131Ga+3. Delving into the realm of atomic structure, we unravel the mysteries of electrons, the fundamental particles that shape the properties of elements and drive chemical reactions.

By exploring the concept of isotopes and electron configuration, we illuminate the intricate relationship between the nucleus and electrons within an atom. This journey will not only provide a precise answer to our initial query but also shed light on the broader implications of electron distribution in chemistry and beyond.

Isotope Identification

Isotopes are variations of an element that have the same number of protons but differ in the number of neutrons. Each element is identified by its atomic number, which is the number of protons in its nucleus. The mass number of an isotope is the total number of protons and neutrons in its nucleus.

The isotope provided, 7131ga+3, represents an isotope of gallium (Ga). The atomic number of gallium is 31, indicating that it has 31 protons in its nucleus. The mass number of this isotope is 71, indicating that it has 71 nucleons (protons and neutrons) in its nucleus.

Atomic Structure

An atom consists of a nucleus, which contains protons and neutrons, and electrons that orbit the nucleus. Protons and neutrons have a positive and neutral charge, respectively, while electrons have a negative charge. The number of protons in an atom determines its element, while the number of electrons determines its chemical properties.

Electrons are arranged in shells or energy levels around the nucleus. Each shell can hold a specific number of electrons, with the first shell holding up to 2 electrons, the second shell holding up to 8 electrons, and so on.

Electron Configuration

Electron configuration is the distribution of electrons in the different energy levels or orbitals around the nucleus of an atom. It is represented using a shorthand notation that specifies the number of electrons in each orbital.

For gallium (Ga), the electron configuration is [Ar] 3d ¹⁰4s ²4p ¹. This notation indicates that gallium has the same electron configuration as argon (Ar) in its first three shells, with 10 electrons in the 3d orbital, 2 electrons in the 4s orbital, and 1 electron in the 4p orbital.

The isotope provided, 7131ga+3, has the same electron configuration as neutral gallium because the charge only affects the number of protons and neutrons, not the number of electrons.

Electron Count, How many electrons are in the following isotope: 7131ga+3

In a neutral atom, the number of electrons is equal to the number of protons. For gallium (Ga), which has an atomic number of 31, there are 31 electrons in a neutral atom.

However, the isotope provided, 7131ga+3, has a charge of +3. This positive charge indicates that the isotope has lost 3 electrons, resulting in 28 electrons.

Electron Distribution

Electrons are distributed within the atomic orbitals based on their energy levels and the Pauli exclusion principle, which states that no two electrons can occupy the same quantum state.

The electron configuration of gallium, [Ar] 3d ¹⁰4s ²4p ¹, indicates that the 10 electrons in the 3d orbital are paired, while the 2 electrons in the 4s orbital and the 1 electron in the 4p orbital are unpaired.

The distribution of electrons in the atomic orbitals influences the chemical properties of the element. For example, elements with unpaired electrons are more reactive than elements with all paired electrons.

Applications

The understanding of electron configuration has numerous applications in various fields, including chemistry, physics, and materials science.

• In chemistry, electron configuration helps predict the chemical properties of elements and their reactivity in chemical reactions.
• In physics, electron configuration is used to understand the electronic structure of atoms, molecules, and solids, and to explain their optical and electrical properties.
• In materials science, electron configuration plays a crucial role in designing and developing new materials with specific properties for applications in electronics, energy storage, and other fields.

Question Bank: How Many Electrons Are In The Following Isotope: 7131ga+3

What is the significance of electron configuration?

Electron configuration plays a crucial role in determining the chemical properties of an element. It governs the element’s reactivity, bonding behavior, and position on the periodic table.

How does the charge of an isotope affect the number of electrons?

The charge of an isotope indicates the difference between the number of protons and electrons. A positive charge signifies a deficit of electrons, while a negative charge indicates an excess of electrons.

What practical applications stem from understanding electron configuration?

Electron configuration finds applications in various fields, including chemistry, physics, and materials science. It aids in predicting chemical reactivity, designing new materials, and understanding the behavior of atoms and molecules.