Change set

Pick exam & year, then Go.

Question map
Not attempted Correct Incorrect Bookmarked
Loading…
Q22 (NDA-II/2020) Science & Technology › Basic Science (Physics, Chemistry, Biology) › Atomic and nuclear physics

The number of maximum electrons in N shell is

Result
Your answer:  ·  Correct: D
Explanation

The maximum number of electrons that can occupy a specific atomic shell is determined by the formula 2n², where 'n' represents the principal quantum number or shell number. In atomic structure, shells are designated by letters starting from the nucleus: K (n=1), L (n=2), M (n=3), and N (n=4). For the N shell, the principal quantum number is 4. Applying the formula, the maximum capacity is calculated as 2 × (4)² = 2 × 16 = 32 electrons. This total is also supported by the sum of electrons in the subshells available in the fourth energy level: the 4s (2), 4p (6), 4d (10), and 4f (14) orbitals, which together equal 32. While the outermost shell of an atom typically follows the octet rule for stability, the theoretical maximum capacity of the N shell remains 32.

How others answered
Each bar shows the % of students who chose that option. Green bar = correct answer, blue outline = your choice.
Community Performance
Out of everyone who attempted this question.
40%
got it right
✓ Thank you! We'll review this.

SIMILAR QUESTIONS

5 Cross-Linked PYQs

UPSC repeats concepts across years. Login to see how this question connects to 5 others.

Login with Google