ATOMIC STRUCTURE

3.3 - Arrangement of Electrons

In section 3.1 we learned that the electrons are located outside the nucleus of the atom in mostly empty space. In this section we will learn that associated with this empty space are many different energy levels. Electrons are organized in such a way such that repulsions between them are minimized. Therefore, they are interdispersed within this space with distinct distances up to 100,000 times away from the nucleus of the atom. Associated with each distinct distance from the nucleus is an energy level.

We will be looking at three models to understand how electrons are arranged inside an atom. Each model will help us gain a better understanding on this complex arrangement. These models are:

1. The Bohr Model of the Atom (Section 3.3.1)
2. The Lewis Electron-Dot Formulas of Elements (Section 3.3.2)
3. The Quantum Mechanical Model of the Atom (Section 3.3.3)

Section 4.6
Arrangement of Electrons in Principal Energy Levels ..p87

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