How do you represent an electron configuration in shorthand notation?

In shorthand notation for electron configuration, the typical approach is to start with the nearest noble gas that precedes the element in the periodic table. This provides a stable reference point, as noble gases have complete valence shells, indicating a stable electron configuration. After citing the noble gas, the remaining electron configuration for the element is then written out, which includes the orbitals that still need to be populated with electrons.

This method significantly simplifies writing the electron configurations, especially for elements with higher atomic numbers, as it avoids the need to specify all orbitals from hydrogen up to the element in question. By using this concise format, one can quickly reference the electron arrangement of an element without losing essential information about its electron structure.

Other methods of representing electron configurations, such as listing each orbital separately or focusing solely on the atomic number or the highest energy level, do not convey the complete picture of the electron distribution in a compact and efficient manner. Thus, the shorthand notation proves to be both practical and informative in presenting electron configurations effectively.