atomic configuration

noun phrase

Meaning

The specific arrangement of electrons in the shells and subshells of an atom, which defines its chemical properties and how it will interact with other atoms.

Examples

The atomic configuration of noble gases makes them very unreactive.
Understanding the atomic configuration of an element is key to predicting its bonding behavior.

Synonyms: electron arrangement, electronic structure, electron configuration

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atomic configuration

noun phrase

Pronunciation: əˈtɒmɪk kənˌfɪɡəˈreɪʃən

Definition

The specific arrangement of electrons in the shells and subshells of an atom, which defines its chemical properties and how it will interact with other atoms.

Examples

The atomic configuration of noble gases makes them very unreactive.
Understanding the atomic configuration of an element is key to predicting its bonding behavior.

How to Use atomic configuration

atomic configuration of (prepositional phrase): Specifies which atom or element the configuration belongs to. — "The atomic configuration of oxygen differs from that of nitrogen."
electron configuration (collocation): A very close synonym, often used interchangeably. — "The electron configuration of sodium is [Ne] 3s¹."

Synonyms of atomic configuration

Words with a similar meaning to atomic configuration:

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