How many electrons can the n = 4 shell hold in an atom?

• A. 32
• B. 8
• C. 16
• D. 64

Answer: (A)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the maximum number of electrons in a shell is determined by the formula \$2n^2$, where $n$ is the principal quantum number (shell number).
2. Identify the given shell number: here, \(n = 4\).
3. Substitute \(n = 4\) into the formula: calculate \(2 \times (4)^2\).
4. Simplify the expression inside the parentheses first: \((4)^2 = 16\).
5. Multiply by 2 to find the maximum number of electrons: \(2 \times 16 = 32\) electrons.