How many electrons can the second electron shell (n = 2) hold?

• A. 6
• B. 8
• C. 2
• D. 18

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand that the number of electrons a shell can hold is determined by the formula \$2n^2\(, where \)n$ is the principal quantum number (the shell number).
2. Identify the shell number given in the problem: \(n = 2\) for the second electron shell.
3. Substitute \(n = 2\) into the formula: calculate \(2 \times (2)^2\).
4. Simplify the expression: \(2 \times 4 = 8\).
5. Conclude that the second electron shell can hold up to 8 electrons.