Sample ADA Test Mistake?

[2PacClone23]

Advertisement - Members don't see this ad

The electronic configuration of a
particular neutral atom is
1s2-2s2-2p6-3s2-3p2. What is the number of
unpaired electrons in this atom?

A. 1
B. 2
C. 3
D. 4
E. 0



Isn't the answer "B"? The answer key says "C"

 

[DrRoyal Pains]

Yea, it should be B, unless they are counting the electrons that are not included in the orbital yet (which wouldn't make any sense)? Then it would be 3.