Electron Configuration Tool

Summary

This tool displays the ground-state electron configuration for every element from hydrogen (Z=1) to oganesson (Z=118). Enter an element symbol, full name, or atomic number to see the full subshell notation (e.g. 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ …), the condensed noble-gas shorthand, and an orbital box diagram showing each electron's spin. It is a fast, reliable reference for students, educators, and anyone studying atomic structure and the periodic table.

How it works

1. Type an element symbol (e.g. Fe), name (e.g. Iron), or atomic number (e.g. 26) in the search box.
2. The tool looks up the ground-state configuration using the Aufbau principle with known exceptions.
3. The full subshell notation is displayed as a superscript string (e.g. 1s² 2s² 2p⁶ 3s² 3p⁶ 3d⁶ 4s²).
4. The orbital box diagram renders each subshell as boxes with up/down arrows for paired and unpaired electrons.
5. The noble-gas shorthand replaces filled inner shells with the nearest preceding noble gas in brackets.

Use cases

• Homework help for chemistry and physics courses.
• Quick reference during exam preparation.
• Verify Aufbau-principle exceptions such as Cr, Cu, Mo, Ag, and Au.
• Teaching aid for lessons on atomic structure and the periodic table.
• Compare electron configurations across a period or group.
• Understand why transition metals form specific oxidation states.
• Study orbital filling order and Hund's rule with the box diagram.

Frequently Asked Questions