The maximum value of x in `2s^(2)p^(x)` is

Explanation

To find the maximum value of \( x \) in the electron configuration \( 2s^2 p^x \), we need to analyze the maximum number of electrons that can occupy the \( s \) and \( p \) subshells.

### Step-by-step Solution:

1. **Understanding the Electron Configuration**:
The notation \( 2s^2 p^x \) indicates that we have two subshells: \( s \) and \( p \). The \( s \) subshell can hold a maximum of 2 electrons, while the \( p \) subshell can hold more.

2. **Maximum Electrons in the \( s \) Subshell**:
The \( s \) subshell has only one orbital. Each orbital can hold a maximum of 2 electrons. Therefore, the maximum number of electrons in the \( s \) subshell is:
\[ \text{Maximum in } s = 2 \]

3. **Understanding the \( p \) Subshell**:
The \( p \) subshell consists of 3 orbitals. Each of these orbitals can also hold a maximum of 2 electrons. Thus, the maximum number of electrons that can occupy the \( p \) subshell is:
\[ \text{Maximum in } p = 3 \text{ orbitals} \times 2 \text{ electrons/orbital} = 6 \]

4. **Setting the Value of \( x \)**:
Since the maximum number of electrons that can be accommodated in the \( p \) subshell is 6, we can conclude that:
\[ x = 6 \]

5. **Final Answer**:
Therefore, the maximum value of \( x \) in the configuration \( 2s^2 p^x \) is:
\[ \boxed{6} \]