What is the principal quantum number for the outermost electrons in sodium (Na)?

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Q: What is the principal quantum number for the outermost electrons in sodium (Na)?

Solution: Sodium has an atomic number of 11, and its outermost electrons are in the n=3 energy level.

Steps: 5

Step 1: Identify the atomic number of sodium (Na). Sodium has an atomic number of 11.
Step 2: Understand that the atomic number tells us the number of electrons in a neutral atom. So, sodium has 11 electrons.
Step 3: Determine the electron configuration of sodium. The electron configuration is 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s¹.
Step 4: Look at the highest energy level in the electron configuration. The highest energy level is '3' from the 3s¹.
Step 5: Conclude that the principal quantum number for the outermost electrons in sodium is n=3.