Question

Can someone help me understand the Aufbau Principle and explain it to me in a way I understand?

Answer 1

I have a definition here in my class, but it doesn't explain it for me. Can anyone just tell me what it is?

Answer 2

The Aufbau principle states that the electrons first occupy the lowest energy orbitals and then move on to the higher ones, just as in our stadium analogy.

Answer 3

Thats the definition in the class.

Answer 4

yes.
that is the principle, not just in class but everywhere.
The idea being:
If there is an emply space for an electron in a "lower energy level", then the electron would rather be there than keep more energy and stay at a higher energy.
So, if by excitation, you provide extra energy to an electron, it will momentarily jump to a corresponding higher energy level then notice that there is an empty space at a lower energy level and will come back down by "releasing" the energy difference as a photon.
so, you've got your lowest energy combination back..

Answer 5

is this what you are looking for?

Answer 6

Yeah thanks!