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Ch.6 - Electronic Structure of Atoms
Chapter 6, Problem 12

State where in the periodic table these elements appear: (a) elements with the valence-shell electron configuration ns2np5 (b) elements that have three unpaired p electrons (c) an element whose valence electrons are 4s24p1 (d) the d-block elements [Section 6.9]

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Key Concepts

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

Valence Electron Configuration

Valence electron configuration describes the distribution of electrons in the outermost shell of an atom. The notation 'ns2np5' indicates that the element has two electrons in the s subshell and five in the p subshell of its highest energy level, which corresponds to the halogens in Group 17 of the periodic table.
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Unpaired Electrons

Unpaired electrons are those that occupy an orbital alone rather than in pairs. Elements with three unpaired p electrons typically belong to Group 15 of the periodic table, where the p subshell has three electrons, leading to unique chemical properties and reactivity.
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d-block Elements

The d-block elements, also known as transition metals, are found in Groups 3 to 12 of the periodic table. These elements are characterized by the filling of d orbitals and exhibit properties such as variable oxidation states and the ability to form colored compounds, making them essential in various chemical reactions and applications.
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