1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p³
Here's how to understand it:
* 1s²: The first energy level (n=1) has one sublevel, the "s" sublevel, which can hold up to two electrons.
* 2s²: The second energy level (n=2) also has an "s" sublevel with two electrons.
* 2p⁶: The second energy level has a "p" sublevel, which can hold up to six electrons.
* 3s²: The third energy level (n=3) has an "s" sublevel with two electrons.
* 3p³: The third energy level has a "p" sublevel with three electrons.
Important Note: Phosphorus has 15 protons and 15 electrons in its neutral state. The electron configuration reflects the distribution of these 15 electrons among the different energy levels and sublevels.
