It states that 2n2 is the limit on how many electrons can fit into a given shell. This means that 2 electrons can fit into the first shell. 8 electrons fit into the second shell. 18 fit into the third shell. 32 fit in fourth shell.
However, I was taught previously that the maximum number electrons in an orbital is 2, 8, in the second orbital and 8 in its third shell. There are 18 electrons in each orbital. 18 orbitals contain 18 electrons. 32 orbitals contain 32 electrons. I believe that orbitals are one and the same as shells.
Which method is best to determine the number of electrons within an orbital?
Please simplify my answer. I’m in high school.