Here's how to determine the electron configuration of a sodium ion (Na+) in its ground state:

1. Understand the Neutral Sodium Atom

* Sodium (Na) has an atomic number of 11, meaning it has 11 protons and 11 electrons.

* Its electron configuration is: 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s¹

2. Ionization of Sodium

* Sodium readily loses one electron to achieve a stable octet (full outer shell) in its electron configuration.

* This loss results in the formation of a positively charged sodium ion (Na+).

3. Electron Configuration of Sodium Ion

* By losing one electron, the 3s¹ orbital becomes empty.

* The resulting electron configuration for Na+ is: 1s² 2s² 2p⁶

Therefore, the most likely electron configuration for a sodium ion (Na+) in its ground state is 1s² 2s² 2p⁶.