Theres this one question in my homework that says that there is an unusual but actual condensed configuration and they said to write it. Which element are they referring to? :S

when I said configuration I meant electron configuration

Hard to say. There are a number of elements that don't quite follow the rules. Any other hints to go by. Cu, Pd, the Au, Ag, Hg grouping are a little unusual.

Thank you :)

Could you also please answer the question below? I still don't understand it.

When I said below I meant on the actually forum; the previous question I posted.

I answered your last response below. Start a new thread if you have further comments about the same question. I think you just need to remember that these are ground states we are talking about, that the 2s is one orbital; the 2p are three different orbitals, and that Hund's rule comes into play when filling the p orbitals but not when filling the s orbital (since it can only be 1 or 2 electrons). As for promotion, it occurs but those configurations are not for the ground state.

I finally understand it. Thank you so much!

To determine which element the question is referring to, you can follow these steps:

1. Read the question carefully: Start by re-reading the question prompt and extract any specific information related to the condensed configuration.

2. Look for clues: Check if the question provides any additional context or hints that may help identify the element. For example, relevant information could include atomic number, symbol, or the position of the element in the periodic table.

3. Consult reference materials: If you still can't determine the specific element, consider consulting reliable reference materials such as textbooks, online databases, or educational websites. Look for information about elements with uncommon or unique condensed configurations.

4. Cross-reference with periodic table: If you have access to a periodic table, locate the elements that you think might have the unusual condensed configuration. Check their electron configurations to see if they match the criteria mentioned in the question.

By following these steps, you should be able to identify the specific element the question is referring to.