1. What is the Bohr Model?

The Bohr model is a simplified representation of atomic structure where electrons orbit the nucleus in specific energy levels or shells. Each shell can hold a maximum number of electrons calculated by the formula 2n², where n is the shell number.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Bohr model formula:

Where:

• \( n \) — Shell number (principal quantum number)
• \( 2n^2 \) — Maximum number of electrons in the nth shell

Explanation: The formula accounts for the quantum mechanical principle that each shell can hold a specific number of electrons based on its energy level.

3. Importance of Electron Configuration

Details: Understanding electron configuration helps predict chemical properties, reactivity, and bonding behavior of elements. The Bohr model provides a foundation for more advanced atomic theories.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the shell number (n) as an integer between 1 and 7. The calculator will return the maximum number of electrons that can occupy that shell according to the Bohr model.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why does the formula use 2n²?
A: The 2 comes from the Pauli exclusion principle (2 electrons per orbital), and n² accounts for the number of orbitals in each shell.

Q2: How many electrons can the first shell hold?
A: The first shell (n=1) can hold 2 electrons (2 × 1² = 2).

Q3: What are the limitations of the Bohr model?
A: It doesn't account for electron subshells (s, p, d, f) or the wave nature of electrons. More accurate models like quantum mechanical models are used today.

Q4: Why is there a maximum of 7 shells?
A: In practice, no known atoms in their ground state have electrons beyond the 7th shell (n=7).

Q5: How does this relate to the periodic table?
A: The period (row) number in the periodic table corresponds to the highest energy shell that contains electrons in an atom's ground state.