Scientists have speculated that element 126 might have a moderate stability, allowing it to be synthesized and characterized. Predict what the condensed electron configuration of this element might be.

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insert step 1> Start by identifying the position of element 126 in the periodic table. It is in the 8th period and belongs to the superactinide series, which follows the actinides.

insert step 2> Determine the electron configuration of the last known element, which is element 118 (Oganesson, Og). Its electron configuration is [Rn] 5f^{14} 6d^{10} 7s^{2} 7p^{6}.

insert step 3> Continue filling the electron orbitals following the Aufbau principle, which states that electrons fill orbitals starting from the lowest energy level to the highest.

insert step 4> After element 118, the next electrons will fill the 8s orbital, then the 5g orbital, and then the 6f orbital.

insert step 5> Predict the condensed electron configuration for element 126 by adding electrons to these orbitals, considering the order of filling: [Og] 8s^{2} 5g^{18} 6f^{4}.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Electron Configuration

Electron configuration describes the distribution of electrons in an atom's orbitals. It follows the Aufbau principle, which states that electrons fill orbitals starting from the lowest energy level to the highest. Understanding electron configuration is crucial for predicting the chemical properties and reactivity of an element.

Periodic Table and Element Position

The periodic table organizes elements based on their atomic number and electron configurations. Element 126, being a hypothetical element, would be located in the superheavy region of the table, likely in the p-block. Its position helps predict its electron configuration and potential chemical behavior.

Stability of Superheavy Elements

Superheavy elements, like element 126, are theorized to exhibit unique stability due to relativistic effects and nuclear forces. These effects can influence their electron configurations and chemical properties, making them different from lighter elements. Understanding these factors is essential for predicting the behavior of such elements.

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