What is the maximum number of electrons that can be held in the p subshell?

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Study for the MCAT Chemical and Physical Foundations of Biological Systems Exam. Practice with multiple choice questions, each with detailed explanations and hints. Excel in your exam and achieve your target score!

The p subshell can hold a maximum of six electrons. This is due to the structure of the p subshell, which contains three p orbitals. Each orbital can accommodate two electrons, one with a spin-up (↑) and one with a spin-down (↓). Thus, when you multiply the number of orbitals (3) by the maximum number of electrons that each orbital can hold (2), you arrive at a total of six electrons (3 orbitals x 2 electrons/orbital = 6 electrons).

Understanding subshell configurations is important for grasping concepts related to electron arrangements in atoms. The p subshell is notable because it follows the s subshell in energy levels and contributes to chemical bonding and properties.

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