Which electron configuration represents the electrons of a phosphorus atom in an excited state?

NY Regents Chemistry Exam June 2022

31 Which electron configuration represents the electrons of a phosphorus atom in an excited state?

(1) 2-8-5

(2) 2-8-6

(3) 2-7-6

(4) 2-7-4

Explanation: Lets take a look at the Periodic Table and find phosphorus (P). On the Periodic Table, the electron configuration for P is 2-8-5. This is a ground electron configuration. For excited, one electron will move to the higher energy level, such as 2-7-6. Electron moved from second energy level to the third.

Answer: 3