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Ch.21 - Transition Elements and Coordination Chemistry
Chapter 21, Problem 26a

Locate on the periodic table the transition elements with the following electron configurations. Identify each element.
(a) [Ar] 3d74s2
(b) [Ar] 3d54s1

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1
Identify the block of the periodic table where transition elements are located. Transition elements are found in the d-block, which includes groups 3 to 12.
For part (a), analyze the electron configuration [Ar] 3d^7 4s^2. The configuration indicates that the element is in the 3d block, with 7 electrons in the 3d subshell and 2 electrons in the 4s subshell.
Determine the atomic number for part (a) by adding the number of electrons in the configuration to the atomic number of Argon (18). The total number of electrons is 18 (Ar) + 7 (3d) + 2 (4s) = 27.
Locate the element with atomic number 27 on the periodic table. This element is Cobalt (Co).
For part (b), analyze the electron configuration [Ar] 3d^5 4s^1. The configuration indicates that the element is in the 3d block, with 5 electrons in the 3d subshell and 1 electron in the 4s subshell.

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Key Concepts

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

Electron Configuration

Electron configuration describes the distribution of electrons in an atom's orbitals. It is represented using a notation that indicates the energy levels and sublevels occupied by electrons. Understanding electron configurations is crucial for identifying elements, especially transition metals, as they often involve partially filled d orbitals.
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Electron Configuration Example

Transition Elements

Transition elements, or transition metals, are found in groups 3 to 12 of the periodic table. They are characterized by their ability to form variable oxidation states and complex ions, and they typically have partially filled d orbitals. This unique electron arrangement contributes to their distinctive chemical properties and reactivity.
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Periodic Table Organization

The periodic table organizes elements based on their atomic number and electron configurations, revealing periodic trends in properties such as electronegativity, ionization energy, and atomic radius. Understanding the layout of the periodic table helps in locating elements based on their electron configurations, particularly for transition metals, which are grouped in specific blocks.
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