Question

1. Explain the difference between writing the electron configuration of a main-group metal ion (Ca²⁺, for example) and writing the electron configuration of a transition metal ion (Fe²⁺, for example). Be sure to clearly explain the process; don't just give two examples of electron configurations
2. Write down one or two specific topics or questions that you have about any material from Chapters 1-4. A topic like “size trends” would be too general, but a question like “How would you determine which ion is larger when you compare P^3- to S^2-?” would be a great example. Consider all of the material we’ve covered so far

Answer 1

writing the electronic configuration of atoms in periodic table according to their atomic number. the electrons in the atoms are arranged in the orbitals in the orbits. adding of electrons depends on the energy of the orbitals. low energy orbitals fill first. in Main group metal ions the outer most electron fill in the s-orbital. in transition metal the outermost electron enters in d-orbitals. the d- orbitals starts from the 3rd orbit.

main group elements general configuration is ns^1-2. transitional metal general electronic configuration is (n-1)d^1-9 ns^{1-2 .}

B) size trends depend on charge on the atom. if negative charge incrase on the atom the size of the atom will increased. in P-3 and S-2 ions phosparus has more negative charge than sulphar. so P-3 has big size than S-2.