Question

Which of the following outer electronic configuration represents argon
A) \[n{{s}^{2}}\]
B) \[n{{s}^{2}}n{{p}^{6}}\]
C) \[n{{s}^{2}}n{{p}^{5}}\]
D) \[n{{s}^{2}}n{{p}^{4}}\]

Answer 1

Hint: Argon is an inert gas element. Thus the electronic configuration of argon is similar to the electronic configuration of inert gas elements. These elements have a completely filled valence shell.

Complete Step by Step Answer:
The general valence shell electronic configuration of inert gas elements is \[n{{s}^{2}}n{{p}^{6}}\]. Thus it contains two electrons in the ns subshell and six in the np subshell.

Argon is a group 18 element of the modern periodic table. It is a noble gas element. It has the noble gas configuration. It is the third most abundant element on earth. The atomic number of argon is 18. The symbol of argon is $Ar$ . The atomic mass of argon is 40 amu.

The uses of argon are as follows:
Argon is widely used when an inert atmosphere is needed in a chemical process or reaction. Argon is widely used in the production of titanium and other reactive elements. It is also widely used by the welders to protect the weld area. It is also used in incandescent light bulbs to prevent oxygen from corroding the filament.
Thus the correct option is B.

Note: The elements with noble gas configuration are highly stable due to the filled valence shell. This is inert and does not react easily. Again these elements have ionisation energy as it requires very high energy to remove an electron.