Why are d Electrons Less Effective in Shielding Nuclear Charge?

Thread starter asdf1
Start date Jul 13, 2006
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Configuration Electron Electron configuration

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D electrons are less effective in shielding nuclear charge compared to s and p electrons due to their more complex azimuthal dependence in spherical harmonics. This complexity results in a less uniform distribution of electron density around the nucleus, leading to increased polarizability. The shape and orientation of d orbitals contribute to their reduced ability to shield the nuclear charge effectively. Consequently, this makes d electrons more susceptible to external electric fields. Understanding these properties is essential for predicting chemical behavior and bonding characteristics.

Jul 13, 2006

asdf1

Why are the d electrons less effective in shielding the nuclear charge than the s or p electrons, and are thus more polarizing?

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Jul 13, 2006

Astronuc

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I believe it has to do with Spherical Harmonics of the wave equation - there is more azimuthal dependence for the d electrons than p or s.

Jul 16, 2006

asdf1

thank you very much!

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