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Ch.2 Atoms and the Periodic Table
Chapter 2, Problem 55

Answer the following questions for the elements from cerium through lutetium: a. Are they metals or nonmetals? b. To what general class of elements do they belong? c. What subshell is being filled by electrons in these elements?

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1
Identify the elements from cerium (Ce) to lutetium (Lu) on the periodic table. These elements are part of the lanthanide series.
Determine whether these elements are metals or nonmetals. Lanthanides are known to be metals.
Classify these elements into a general class. The lanthanides belong to the class of rare earth metals.
Identify the subshell being filled by electrons in these elements. The lanthanides involve the filling of the 4f subshell.
Summarize: Cerium through lutetium are metallic elements, classified as rare earth metals, with electrons filling the 4f subshell.

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Key Concepts

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

Lanthanides

The elements from cerium (Ce) to lutetium (Lu) are known as lanthanides, a series of 15 metallic elements in the periodic table. They are characterized by their similar properties, including high melting points and reactivity, and are often used in various high-tech applications such as catalysts and magnets.
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Metals vs. Nonmetals

Metals are typically characterized by their ability to conduct electricity and heat, malleability, ductility, and luster. In contrast, nonmetals are generally poor conductors and are more brittle in solid form. The lanthanides are classified as metals due to their metallic properties and behavior in chemical reactions.
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Electron Configuration

The subshell being filled by electrons in lanthanides is the 4f subshell. As you move from cerium to lutetium, electrons are progressively added to this subshell, which is responsible for the unique chemical properties of these elements. Understanding electron configuration is crucial for predicting the behavior of elements in chemical reactions.
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