What is the electronic configuration of potassium?

The electronic configuration of potassium is represented as 2.8.8.1, indicating the distribution of electrons in the atom's energy levels. Potassium has an atomic number of 19, meaning it has 19 electrons.

In the first energy level, it can hold a maximum of 2 electrons, which accounts for the '2.' The second energy level can hold a maximum of 8 electrons, represented by the first '8.' The third energy level can also accommodate up to 8 electrons, which is indicated by the second '8.' However, since potassium has 19 electrons in total and has filled its first and second shells, it has one electron remaining, which resides in its fourth energy level. This is represented by the final '1' in the electronic configuration.

Consequently, the full configuration of potassium captures how it organizes its electrons, making option 2.8.8.1 the correct representation of its electronic structure. This configuration is crucial because it helps explain potassium's chemical properties and reactivity, particularly its tendency to lose one electron and form positive ions in reactions.