Question

Which electron configuration represents an
atom of chlorine in an excited state?
(1) 2–8–7 (3) 2–8–6–1
(2) 2–8–8 (4) 2–8–7–1

Answer 1

(3) is the answer when the an atom of chlorine in an excited state. If it isn't excited, (1) should be the answer. Having said that, (2)&(4) cannot be the answer as their no. of electrons have exceeded 17 electrons.