Answer :
Final answer:
The correct orbital filling order is 3s, 3p, 4s, 3d, which corresponds to answer option d. This order is a result of the relative energy levels of the different subshells and is essential for understanding atomic structure.
Explanation:
The correct order of orbital filling is based on the energy levels and sublevels of electrons in an atom. The order of electron filling is crucial for understanding atomic structure and the periodic table.
The correct order, according to the Aufbau principle and considering the energy levels and sub levels overlap, is as follows:
- 3s
- 3p
- 4s
- 3d
Therefore, the correct answer to the student's question is d. 3s, 3p, 4s, 3d. This is because after the 3p sub shell is filled, the next sub shell in terms of increasing energy is the 4s sub shell, followed then by the 3d sub shell.