To determine the maximum number of electrons that can occupy a given principal energy level (n), we use the formula:
[tex]\[ \text{Maximum number of electrons} = 2 \times n^2 \][/tex]
Here, we need to find the maximum number of electrons in the second principal energy level, which means [tex]\( n = 2 \)[/tex].
Now, we substitute [tex]\( n = 2 \)[/tex] into the formula:
[tex]\[ \text{Maximum number of electrons} = 2 \times (2^2) \][/tex]
First, calculate [tex]\( 2^2 \)[/tex]:
[tex]\[ 2^2 = 4 \][/tex]
Then, multiply the result by 2:
[tex]\[ 2 \times 4 = 8 \][/tex]
Therefore, the maximum number of electrons in the second principal energy level (n=2) is 8.
So, the correct answer is:
b. 8
