Can an element be identified by the electron configuration?

Answer 1

Yes, but an electron configuration could be that of an ion. The identification of an element depends on the number of protons in its nucleus, so only when the species is also neutral can the electron configuration be used to identify it.

Examples 1s2 2s2 2p6 is the electron configuration of Neon but also of F-. Take the superscripts and add them together to get the atomic number and if neutral must be Neon but if negative is that of F-

Answer 2

Yes, the electron configuration of an element provides information about the arrangement of its electrons in different energy levels. Each element has a unique electron configuration, allowing for identification based on the number of electrons in its various energy levels.