Which element in the transition-metal series Sc through Zn has five unpaired electrons in its +3 ion?

Verified step by step guidance

Step 1: Understand that the transition metals Sc through Zn are in the 3d series of the periodic table. The electron configurations of these elements involve filling the 3d subshell.

Step 2: Recall that the +3 ion means that three electrons have been removed from the atom. In transition metals, these electrons are typically removed from the 4s subshell first, and then from the 3d subshell.

Step 3: Identify the element that, when three electrons are removed, will have five unpaired electrons remaining. This means the neutral atom must have eight electrons in its 3d subshell.

Step 4: Look at the periodic table and find the element in the 3d series that has eight electrons in its 3d subshell. This is the element that will have five unpaired electrons in its +3 ion.

Step 5: Remember that the number of electrons in the 3d subshell corresponds to the group number of the element in the periodic table. So, the element you're looking for is in group 8 of the transition metals.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Transition Metals

Transition metals are elements found in groups 3 to 12 of the periodic table. They are characterized by their ability to form variable oxidation states and complex ions, as well as their unique electron configurations, which often involve the d-orbitals. Understanding their electron configurations is crucial for predicting their chemical behavior and properties.

Electron Configuration

Electron configuration describes the distribution of electrons in an atom's orbitals. For transition metals, the d-orbitals play a significant role in determining the number of unpaired electrons. The electron configuration can change when an atom forms ions, as electrons are lost from the outermost orbitals, affecting the number of unpaired electrons.

Unpaired Electrons

Unpaired electrons are electrons that occupy an orbital alone rather than in pairs. The number of unpaired electrons in an atom or ion influences its magnetic properties and reactivity. In transition metals, the presence of unpaired electrons in their d-orbitals is key to understanding their oxidation states and the formation of various ions.