What is the maximum number of electrons that can be accommodated in an energy shell designated by the principal quantum number n = 4?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The maximum capacity of electrons in any principal energy shell is determined by the standard formula two times n squared, where n represents the principal quantum number. Substituting the value four into the expression yields two times sixteen, resulting in a total capacity of thirty-two electrons. The azimuthal quantum number dictates the subshell distribution within these main energy levels.