1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 4s² 3d¹⁰ 4p⁶ 5s² 4d¹⁰ 5p⁶ 6s² 4f¹⁴ 5d¹⁰ 6p⁶ 7s² 5f¹⁴ 6d²
Explanation:
* Principal quantum numbers (n): These numbers (1, 2, 3, etc.) represent the electron shells.
* Subshells (s, p, d, f): These letters indicate the different subshells within each shell, with their varying shapes and energy levels.
* Superscripts: The superscripts tell you how many electrons are in each subshell.
Important Note: The order of filling orbitals sometimes deviates from the expected pattern to minimize energy. This is why the 5f subshell fills before the 6d subshell in thorium.
