what is the electron configuration of an atom

ATI TEAS 7

TEAS 7 science practice questions

1. What does the term 'electron configuration' refer to in relation to an atom?

A. The arrangement of electrons in an atom's orbitals.
B. The number of protons in an atom's nucleus.
C. The number of neutrons in an atom's nucleus.
D. The number of electrons in an atom's valence shell.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The electron configuration of an atom refers to the arrangement of electrons in the atom's orbitals. This arrangement determines the atom's chemical properties and behavior. The number of protons in an atom's nucleus (option B) is known as the atomic number, which defines the element. The number of neutrons in an atom's nucleus (option C) contributes to the atom's mass number. The number of electrons in an atom's valence shell (option D) is important for understanding the atom's reactivity and bonding behavior, but the electron configuration specifically refers to how electrons are distributed among the different orbitals in an atom.

2. How does electron configuration relate to the periodic table?

A. Elements within the same period have identical electron configurations.
B. Elements within the same group share similar electron configurations in their outermost shell.
C. Electron configuration determines an element's position on the periodic table.
D. An element's group on the periodic table is determined by the number of electron shells it possesses.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Elements within the same group share similar electron configurations in their outermost shell. The periodic table is organized based on the number of electrons in the outermost energy level, known as valence electrons, which significantly influence an element's chemical properties. Elements within the same group have the same number of valence electrons, leading to comparable chemical behaviors. Choices A and D are incorrect because elements within the same period, not group, have identical electron configurations, and an element's group is primarily determined by the number of valence electrons and not the number of electron shells. Choice C is incorrect because while electron configuration is crucial for understanding an element's properties, it is not the sole factor determining its position on the periodic table.

3. What does nuclear binding energy represent?

A. Separate an electron from its atom
B. Separate protons and neutrons within a nucleus
C. Cause nuclear fission
D. Induce nuclear fusion

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Nuclear binding energy represents the energy required to hold protons and neutrons together within a nucleus. This energy is needed to overcome the electrostatic repulsion between positively charged protons and keep the nucleus stable. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Choice A relates to ionization energy, which is the energy required to remove an electron from an atom. Choices C and D refer to nuclear reactions (fission and fusion), which involve processes different from the concept of nuclear binding energy.

4. Which of the following is NOT a common location for lymph nodes?

A. Groin
B. Armpit
C. Neck
D. Liver

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'D: Liver.' The liver is not a common location for lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are small, bean-shaped structures distributed throughout the body, including common sites like the groin, armpit, and neck. They play a crucial role in the immune system by filtering lymph fluid and trapping harmful substances, aiding the body in defending against infections and diseases. The liver, on the other hand, is an organ responsible for various functions like detoxification, metabolism, and storage, but it does not house lymph nodes.

5. What is the primary function of the respiratory system?

A. Maintain body temperature
B. Deliver oxygen to the bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide
C. Produce antibodies for the immune system
D. Break down food molecules for energy

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The primary function of the respiratory system is to deliver oxygen to the bloodstream and remove carbon dioxide. This process occurs through breathing, where oxygen is inhaled into the lungs and then transferred to the bloodstream, while carbon dioxide is removed from the bloodstream and exhaled out of the body. Maintaining body temperature (A), producing antibodies for the immune system (C), and breaking down food molecules for energy (D) are functions of other systems in the body, not the respiratory system. Therefore, the correct answer is B.