According to the Bohr model, how many electrons occupy the third energy level (n = 3) in a neutral magnesium atom?

• A. 6
• B. 2
• C. 8
• D. 12

Answer: (C)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Recall that the Bohr model describes electrons as occupying discrete energy levels (shells) around the nucleus, each characterized by the principal quantum number \(n\).
2. Determine the maximum number of electrons that can occupy the third energy level (\(n=3\)) using the formula \$2n^2\(, where \)n$ is the principal quantum number.
3. Calculate the maximum capacity of the third shell: \$2 \times 3^2 = 2 \times 9 = 18$ electrons.
4. Identify the total number of electrons in a neutral magnesium atom, which is equal to its atomic number, 12.
5. Distribute the 12 electrons into the energy levels starting from the lowest (\(n=1\)), then \(n=2\), and finally \(n=3\), considering the maximum capacities of each shell, to find how many electrons occupy the third energy level.