To determine the number of valence electrons for inner transitional metals, one must consider both the s and d orbitals. Valence electrons are crucial for drawing Lewis structures and understanding reactivity, particularly in transition metals. While Lewis structures primarily focus on s orbitals, d orbitals also contribute to the overall electron count. For accurate molecular modeling, molecular orbital theory is often preferred over traditional Lewis structures for these elements.
PREREQUISITESChemistry students, educators, and professionals involved in molecular modeling and structural chemistry, particularly those focusing on transition metals.
leaf345 said:For the purpose of drawing dot structures and determining VSEPR shape, how do I figure out the number of valence electrons for inner transitional metals? Do I only count the electrons in the highest p and s orbitals, or do I also count the electrons in d,f,etc. orbitals? Clarification on this would be appreciated!