🏆 AP Exam Prep

What is the electron configuration of a neutral carbon atom (Z=6)?

A 1s² 2s¹ 2p³
B 1s² 2s² 2p²
C 1s² 2s² 2p⁴
D 1s² 2p⁴

✓ Correct Answer: Option B

Carbon has 6 electrons: 1s² 2s² 2p², following the aufbau principle.

💡 Why is B) the correct answer?

The correct answer to the question "What is the electron configuration of a neutral carbon atom (Z=6)?" is Option B: 1s² 2s² 2p².

The other options — A) 1s² 2s¹ 2p³, C) 1s² 2s² 2p⁴, D) 1s² 2p⁴ — are incorrect for this AP Exam Prep question. As explained above: Carbon has 6 electrons: 1s² 2s² 2p², following the aufbau principle.

📚 About This AP Exam Prep Practice Question

This 1-level AP Exam Prep question from the AP Chemistry topic is part of BrainForge Quiz's free exam preparation library. Each question includes the correct answer and a detailed explanation to help you understand the underlying concept, not just memorize the answer.

How to use this page: Read the question above, consider all four options (A through D), then check the highlighted correct answer and explanation. For active timed practice, start a free AP Exam Prep practice test or use flashcards for spaced repetition review.

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