Maximum electrons in second shell (L).

**The reasoning** The maximum number of electrons in any shell follows the formula **2n²**, where n is the shell number. For the second shell (L-shell), n = 2: - Maximum electrons = 2n² = 2(2)² = 2 × 4 = **8 electrons** Think of it this way: the L-shell has two subshells — 2s (holds 2 electrons) and 2p (holds 6 electrons). Total = 2 + 6 = 8. **Why the wrong options tempt you** - **A) 2** — This is the K-shell (first shell) capacity, or just the 2s subshell alone. Easy mix-up! - **B) 6** — This is only the 2p subshell. You forgot to add the 2s electrons. - **D) 18** — This is the third shell (M-shell) capacity using 2(3)² = 18. You jumped ahead one shell. **Quick takeaway** Remember: **2n² is your best friend** — K-shell (n=1) holds 2, L-shell (n=2) holds 8, M-shell (n=3) holds 18. Master this formula and you'll never miss electron configuration questions again!