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Ch.6 - Ionic Compounds: Periodic Trends and Bonding Theory
Chapter 6, Problem 46

There are two elements in the transition-metal series Sc through Zn that have four unpaired electrons in their 2+ ions. Identify them.

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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 the d-block of the periodic table, characterized by their ability to form variable oxidation states and colored compounds. They typically have partially filled d-orbitals, which play a crucial role in their chemical properties and bonding behavior.
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Electron Configuration

Electron configuration describes the distribution of electrons in an atom's orbitals. For transition metals, the electron configuration can change with ionization, affecting the number of unpaired electrons. Understanding how to write and interpret these configurations is essential for identifying the oxidation states and magnetic properties of the elements.
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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 the context of transition metals, identifying the number of unpaired electrons in their ions helps determine their oxidation states and chemical behavior.
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