Is there a Formula for Determining States of 3d^4 Configuration?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the existence and calculation of spin states for a hypothetical 3d4 electron configuration. Participants explore whether such a configuration can be defined and how to determine the number of possible spin states associated with it, while also addressing the implications of closed shells in atomic structure.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions the relevance of discussing a 3d4 configuration, suggesting that no atom possesses this configuration.
  • Another participant asserts that a 3d4 configuration can exist by neglecting closed shells and proposes a calculation for the number of spin states, arriving at 210.
  • A later reply challenges the initial claim about the existence of a 3d4 atom, implying that if it were valid, a corresponding element should be identifiable.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express disagreement regarding the existence of a 3d4 configuration, with some asserting it can exist under certain assumptions while others contest its relevance and existence.

Contextual Notes

The discussion involves assumptions about closed shells and the implications for atomic configurations, which remain unresolved. The calculations presented depend on these assumptions and the definitions of electron configurations.

scarecrow
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a 3d^4 configuration? I made a table filling out the possible spin states, but it seems like there's infinite permutations.. I know that's not possible but it's taking too long.

Is there a formula to find this out?
 
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There's no atom with 3d^4 configuration. So what's the point in thinking about one ?

Daniel.
 
I'm neglecting closed shells, so therefore a 3d^4 atom does exist.

Anyways...I figured it out...there's (1/4!)(10*9*8*7) = 210 spin states.

Electron 1 has 10 possible states
Electron 2 has 9
Electron 3 has 8
Electron 4 has 7
 
scarecrow said:
I'm neglecting closed shells, so therefore a 3d^4 atom does exist.
No, dexter is still right. Or else, you should be able to name the element with the 3d^4 configuration.
 

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