SOLUTION: Have not had algebra since age 15, now 45. I am taking a human biology course, and it deals with chemistry/atoms, etc. Which involves math equations. I am totally lost and in

Question 68331This question is from textbook An Introduction to Chemistry for Biology Students
: Have not had algebra since age 15, now 45. I am taking a human biology course, and it deals with chemistry/atoms, etc. Which involves math equations.
I am totally lost and in need of help. And I can't go forward without understanding this and I need to know this material BEFORE I begin my class. Please Help!
In regards to an Atom, Electrons have energy levels and consist of layers beginning with the most outer edge and work toward the center (the nucleus). There is a maximum number of electrons per energy level. The max number may be determined by using formula X = 2n (small 2 placed up and to the right of n). I assume this means squared?
This is what they gave me and it is in parts, so forgive me if I've over asked, but if I understand the equations, then the rest will fall into place, if you will.
With the formula X=2n squared, n=1, then X= ? The answer is 2. Why/How?
So the next energy level of the electron is X=2n squared, n=2, then X=? The answer is 8. Why/How?
So the 3rd energy level of the electron is X=2n squared, n=?, then X=? The answer for X is 18? Why/How and what would then be the answer to n?
Same for the 4th level only the answer for X is then 32. Why/How and what would then be answer to n? at this level?
I know this is a very simple thing, but I am drawing a blank here obviously and just not sure how to calculate the formula going forward. Thank you for this forum and also a huge thank you in advance for your helping me!
A very frustrated again student after almost 30 years!
Tammy Llewellyn from VA This question is from textbook An Introduction to Chemistry for Biology Students

Answer by ptaylor(2198) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!
The number of electrons that an energy level can hold is given by:
where n is the energy level
when n=1, then 2 times 1 squared
when n=2, then 2 times 2 squared (2 squared is 4)
when n=3, then ditto
when n=4, then ditto

etc

Hope this helps-----ptaylor

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