Electronic Configuration Question

In summary, the valance electrons of MO (Mo) are [KR]5s^1 4d^5 and not [KR]5s^2 4d^4 due to the extra stability associated with a half-filled d-orbital. This can be seen in the configuration charts and is a common trend in elements such as Cr and Cu.
  • #1
relativitydude
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How come the valance electrons of MO is [KR]5s^1 4d^5 and not

[KR]5s^2 4d^4
 
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  • #2
Because of the extra stability associated with a half-filled d-orbital. See http://itl.chem.ufl.edu/2045/lectures/lec_11.html .

Scroll down to about half way where you see 'exchange' in blue; the configuration charts below that should be helpful as well.

PS: Be careful with your notation; the elements MO and KR do not exist, and should be written as Mo and Kr to denote the elements you speak of.
 
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  • #3
Thank you, Sirus.

That makes sense, but how would I predict such a thing?
 
  • #4
All half filled and full filled orbitals have extra stability.So much that the electron from s orbital may go to the inner orbital.check out e config of Cr,Cu etc.
 

1. What is electronic configuration and why is it important?

Electronic configuration refers to the arrangement of electrons in an atom, molecule, or ion. It is important because it determines the chemical and physical properties of an element, as well as its reactivity and bonding behavior.

2. How do you determine the electronic configuration of an atom?

The electronic configuration of an atom can be determined by following the Aufbau principle, which states that electrons fill the lowest energy levels first, and then move to higher energy levels. The order of filling is based on the number of electrons an energy level can hold.

3. What is the significance of the periodic table in understanding electronic configuration?

The periodic table is a visual representation of the electronic configuration of elements. It is organized based on the number of electrons in the outermost energy level, which determines an element's chemical behavior and properties.

4. Can an atom's electronic configuration change?

Yes, an atom's electronic configuration can change through various processes, such as ionization, where an atom gains or loses electrons, or through chemical reactions, where electrons are shared or transferred between atoms.

5. How does electronic configuration affect an element's position on the periodic table?

The electronic configuration of an element determines its position on the periodic table. Elements in the same group have similar electronic configurations, which results in similar chemical properties. Elements in the same period have the same number of energy levels, but different electronic configurations, leading to different physical and chemical properties.

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