Simple question for chemists?

If the period indicates the number of atomic shells, and the atomic number indicates the number of electrons, why is calcium in the fourth period? That doesn't make sense, does it? Because 20 electrons don't need four shells?

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JenerDerBleibt
1 year ago

You can only pack 18 electrons into the third shell if there are already 2 in the 4th. Otherwise go only 8.

Here you can see the boundaries of the shell model again.

JenerDerBleibt
1 year ago
Reply to  AlterSchwede69

The third is already “full” with 8 and will only be extended if it is no longer the outer shell. Only 8.

And yes, the model comes to its limits. Because there are no real shells in an atom. This order of occupation can only be explained with the orbital model.

PeterJohann
1 year ago

2-8-8-2, [Ar]4s^2
Does it fit?

PeterJohann
1 year ago
Reply to  AlterSchwede69

The miracles of chemistry 🙂

The 10 3d electrons are energetically between 4s and 4p

PeterJohann
1 year ago
Reply to  AlterSchwede69

The occupation always takes place according to the energy level of the respective electron energetically more favorable first and the 4s are cheaper than the 3d and are therefore only occupied.
“Shales” are just a model construct and the more you align the model with reality, the more you have to bend it.