What is the maximum number of electrons that can be present in the second electron shell?

The second electron shell, also known as the second energy level, can hold a maximum of eight electrons. This limit is based on the formula for calculating the maximum number of electrons in a given shell, which is given by (2n^2), where (n) is the principal quantum number corresponding to the energy level. For the second shell, (n) equals 2, so you would calculate (2(2^2)), which equals 8.

This configuration allows the second shell to fill completely with eight electrons, accommodating eight distinct locations for electrons, which is crucial for ensuring stability in an atom's electronic structure. Atoms generally seek to maintain a full outer shell to achieve a stable electronic configuration, which is the basis for the filling order of electrons in shells and the resultant chemical properties of the elements. Hence, option B is correct, as it accurately reflects the upper limit of electrons in the second shell.