How many p electrons are present in a neutral atom of gallium (Ga)?

• A. 10
• B. 18
• C. 6
• D. 12

Answer: (D)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the atomic number of gallium (Ga), which tells you the total number of electrons in a neutral atom. Gallium has an atomic number of 31.
2. Write the electron configuration of gallium by filling orbitals in order of increasing energy: 1s, 2s, 2p, 3s, 3p, 4s, 3d, and 4p.
3. Count the number of electrons in all the p orbitals. Remember that p orbitals can hold a maximum of 6 electrons each, and they appear in the 2p, 3p, and 4p subshells for gallium.
4. Sum the electrons in the 2p, 3p, and 4p subshells to find the total number of p electrons in gallium.
5. Verify your count by ensuring the total number of electrons adds up to 31 and that the distribution follows the Aufbau principle, Hund's rule, and the Pauli exclusion principle.