Electron Configuration Notation:

-shows the arrangment of electrons around the nucleus of an atom.

- helps chemist understanding how elements form chemical bonds.

- can be written using the period table or an electron configuration chart.

How to Write the Electron Configuration for Sodium (Na)

In order to write the Na electron configuration we first need to know the number of electrons for the Na atom (there are 11 electrons). When we write the configuration we'll put all 11 electrons in orbitals around the nucleus of the Sodium atom.

In writing the electron configuration for sodium the first two electrons will go in the 1s orbital. Since 1s can only hold two electrons the next 2 electrons for sodium go in the 2s orbital. The nex six electrons will go in the 2p orbital. The p orbital can hold up to six electrons. We'll put six in the 2p orbital and then put the remaining electron in the 3s. Therefore the sodium electron configuration will be 1s²2s²2p⁶3s¹.

The configuration notation provides an easy way for scientists to write and communicate how electrons are arranged around the nucleus of an atom. This makes it easier to understand and predict how atoms will interact to form chemical bonds.